Duane Schmidt

DUANE A. 'SMITTY' SCHMIDT, 76 ROCKFORD - Duane A. "Smitty" Schmidt, 76 of Rockford, died unexpectedly Thursday, March 14, 2013, at Amberwood Care Center. Born July 27, 1936, in Beloit, WI., the son of William and Alta (Miller) Schmidt. Graduate of West High School and married his loving wife, Susan Cary on Jan. 20, 1978, in Rockford. Worked as a baker at Colonial Bakery for 20 years until he retired in 1998. Smitty was an avid L.A. Lakers and 49ers fan and he and Susan enjoyed traveling to California for vacation. He was well known for his famous goulash, watching movies, working in the yard and taking time out to read a good book. He most enjoyed spending time with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren whom he loved and adored very much. The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to his favorite nurses and CNAs at Rockford Memorial Hospital on the ICU and Acute ICU units, B-4 floor and the doctors and staffs at Amberwood and the Emergency Room at Rockford Memorial Hospital. Survivors include his devoted wife of 35 years, Susan of Rockford; children, Richard Schmidt of Machesney Park, Janice (Mike) McKee of Loves Park, Anita (Greg Bryer) Cary of Rockford, Arlene (Rob) Weber of Indiana, Andrea (Teri Mahoney) Cary of Florida, Jennifer (Chuck) O'Brien of Rockton, Kathy Gasparini of South Beloit, Lauren Frye of Byron and Lynda Withrow of Rockton; grandchildren, Miranda (Ray Floyd) McKee, Michael Jr. and Nathan McKee, Allison Jochims, Jacob (Lindsy) Jochims, Megan, Ryan, Abby and Emily Weber, Charlie O'Brien III and Logan O'Brien; great-grandchildren, Anastasia and Dominic Floyd. Preceded in death by his parents; brother, William and sister, Winifred Roeche. Funeral service at 11 a.m. Tuesday, March 19, 2013, at Grace Lutheran Church, 343 Grand Ave, Loves Park, with the Rev. Brent Dahlseng officiating. Visitation from 5 to 8 p.m. Monday, March 18, at Fitzgerald Funeral Home and Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Rd., and continues on Monday at church from 10 a.m. until time of service. In lieu of flowers and plants, please make memorials to the family. Express online condolences at: www.fitzgeraldfh.com.