Gary Lee Froeber

ROCKFORD - Gary Lee Froeber, 71, of Rockford, IL, passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 2, 2024 surrounded by his loving family. Gary was born on November 3, 1952 and raised in Beloit, WI. by his parents Gilbert Froeber Sr. and Ruth Froeber. He attended school in Beloit, WI and graduated from Turner High School before proudly enlisting in the United States Navy. Gary served from November 1971 to November 1975 during the Vietnam War as a Seaman, Coastal River Squadron One and later rising to Gunner's Mate. Gary loved to share stories about his travels across the globe, the people he met, and the duties he performed aboard ship, always reflecting on the profound experiences that shaped his character and life. Gary received The National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal and the Meritorious Unit Citation in the Navy.

Gary met his sweetheart, Nancy Jo McClelland, on July 26, 1979, and their instant connection led them to marry on October 20, 1979. Gary and Nancy Jo were married for 45 years, together they raised 11 children and lived a life full of laughter, love, and shared many adventures.

Gary earned his living as a Computer Technician for various companies over the years. He was never one to shy away from hard work—whether he was tinkering with electronics, fixing cars, doing yard work or making repairs around the house. He enjoyed his time putting things back together.  He had a compassion for animals and later worked as a Veterinarian Technician for a period of time when they lived in Texas. He adored all of the family pets that he and his children rescued over the years.

Gary had many hobbies; he had a fascination with marine life and loved creating beautiful salt water aquariums that mirrored his calm and thoughtful nature. Gary passionately spent hours perfecting his poetry and often told his family that he was leaving his legacy behind through his poems. Gary enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren, playing cards with his family and loved watching old family classics, Star Trek reruns and his favorite Western movies.

Gary will be most remembered for his down-to-earth personality, quick wit and a playful spirit that made him unforgettable. He was known for his lighthearted humor and mischievous smile and was always able to stir up a bit of fun with his teasing nature. He had a way of keeping those around him on their toes, often sparking laughter with his playful jabs and cheeky remarks, all delivered with love and an undeniable sense of fun. Gary knew how to brighten any room with his infectious energy, leaving behind warmth and laughter long after he was gone.

Gary's family was his greatest treasure, he is survived by his wife, Nancy Jo Froeber; his children, David Froeber, Heather Froeber, Amber Froeber, Brett Froeber, Ashley Froeber, Brittany Froeber, Brianne Froeber, Kirstie Froeber, Mariah Froeber, Cassie Froeber, and Callie Froeber; his brother, David (Jeanine) Froeber; his grandchildren, Kyle, Conner and Khloe Froeber, Graceson Wallace, Cooper and Noah Campbell, Caden and Haven Froeber, Ensley and Wilder Werle and Elliot Clark; his niece, Chrissy Froeber; his nephew, David Froeber, along with many other family members and friends who will cherish his memory forever.

Gary is preceded in death by his parents, Gilbert Froeber Sr. and Ruth Froeber, sisters, Kathryn Banker, Elizabeth Froeber and Judith Froeber, and brothers Gilbert Froeber Jr. and John Froeber.

Visitation will be held from 5pm-6 pm on Thursday, December 19, 2024, at Christenson Funeral Home, 925 3rd Ave., Rockford, IL 61104. A Memorial Service will follow at 6pm  at Christenson Funeral Home, with Pastor Mark Taylor of City First Church officiating.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to all those who have supported them during this time.

www.rockfordfunerals.com