Velma M. Knoebber

VELMA M. KNOEBBER, 77 MACHESNEY PARK - Velma M. Knoebber, 77, of Machesney Park died at 6:15 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 26, 2007, in Swedish-American Hospital. She was born June 28, 1930, in Dubu-que, Iowa, to Edward and Madalene (Reuter) Renk. Married for 58 years to James Knoebber, they were wed Dec. 26, 1948, in Galena. Retired from Kmart after 14 years of service. Member of St. Bridget Catholic Church. Velma and Jim were active at their retirement home in Bonita Springs, Fla., where she played softball for 15 years in Citrus Park, Fla., and a member of the Belles of Harmony. She loved bingo and family gatherings. A loving wife and mother who raised six children with unconditional love and always put the needs of others before herself. Survivors include husband, James; children, Michael (Mary) Knoebber of Loves Park, Linda Knoebber Budi of Richmond, Va., Debby (Ron) Alexander of Rockford, Craig (Vicki) of Loves Park, Kevin (Barb) of Seneca and Jeff (Dawn) Knoebber of Loves Park; grandchildren, Courtney, Daniel, Sarah, Rick, Krissy, Steve and Zachery; brother, Edward (Helen) Renk of San Antonio, Texas; and several nieces and nephews. Predeceased by granddaughter, Andrea "Boo"; and sister, Jeanette Beaird. Mass of resurrection at 10:30 a.m. Friday, Aug. 31, in St. Bridget Catholic Church, with Monsignor John J. Mitchell officiating. Visitation from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 30, in Delehanty Funeral Home Ltd., 401 River Lane, Loves Park. In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Jude Children's hospital. For additional information, visit delehantyfh.com.