Gerald Strand

GERALD A. 'GERRY' STRAND, 85 ROCKFORD - Gerald A. "Gerry" Strand, 85, of Rockford, died Saturday, May 4, 2013, in his home, surrounded by his family. Born Feb. 12, 1928, in Rockford; the son of Addison and Rose (Larson) Strand. Graduate of Rockford East High School class of 1945. Served in the U.S. Navy following World War II. He married Marian B. Garrett Oct. 21, 1950, in Rockford. Gerry retired in 1986 from the U.S. Postal Service as the Superintendent of Collection and Delivery. Lifelong member of Trinity Lutheran Church, where he served on the church council and was an usher. Gerry was also a member of the National Association of Retired Federal Employees (NARFE), Rockford Lodge #102, Tebala Shrine Temple, and 50-year member of Freeport Consistory. Gerry enjoyed spending time with his family, traveling with his wife, and golfing with his buddies. He was an avid fan of the Bears, Cubs, and Illini. He had the unexpected thrill of attending the Rose Bowl in 1984. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Marian; children, Sue Jarvi, Doug (Cheri) Strand, and Jan (Brad) Benedict; grandchildren, Brett Strand, Lee Strand, Julie (Bob) McGhee, Justin Jarvi, and Heather (Jeff) Pazera; great-grandchildren, Ashlee, Zac, Ava, Zoe, and Will; sister-in- law, Norma (Hugo) Peterson; brother-in-law, Royce (Joan) Garrett; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Predeceased by his parents; brother, Bud Strand; grandson, Jeff Jarvi; and brother-in-law, Frank (Noreen) Garrett. Funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Thursday, May 9, 2013, in Trinity Lutheran Church, 200 N. First St., with Rev. Jay Quinn officiating. Visitation from 9:30 to 10:45 a.m. prior to the service in the church. Burial in Scandinavian Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church or Northern Illinois Hospice, 4215 Newburg Rd., Rockford, IL 61108. Arrangements by Olson Funeral & Cremation Services, Ltd. To share a memory or condolence, visit olsonfh.com.