Lorraine Frances Demars

ROCKFORD -----  Lorraine Frances DeMars, age 94, of Rockford passed away peacefully at home Monday, March 18, 2019, after a short illness. Born in Rockford, the daughter of John and Harriet (Kostka) Gatz.  Her dear step-father was Roy J. Borst.Lorraine attended Rockford West High School where she met her future husband, Carl W DeMars, the love of her life.  They wed on March 31, 1945 and were married over 67 years.  Carl died January 10, 2013.

Lorraine lived a long and active life.  She and Carl wintered 35 years in Bradenton FL and had many friends.  Lorraine loved her homes, family holidays, decorating, entertaining, cooking and baking; and was especially known for her delicious pies.  She enjoyed many craftwork hobbies, such as cross stitch, sewing, crocheting and painting with acrylics.  Lorraine loved plants and being outside working in the yard and maintained large flowerbeds into her mid-80's.  She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Winnebago, the Naomi Circle and The Winnebago Senior Women's Club.  Lorraine taught us all lessons in graceful aging; she loved puzzles, reading and socializing and remained physically active with daily long walks and exercise classes up until her illness.

Most of all, Lorraine loved her family and friends and enjoyed meeting new people.   She was a beautiful, sweet person whose kindness was a light in many lives.  Lorraine lived the last few years of her life at Siena on Brendenwood, where she enjoyed daily activities (especially the musicians who came to perform) and often visited with her children and others.  The family wishes to thank the staff at Siena, her In-Home helpers (especially Sarah and Jane), and dear friends there for helping make Lorraine's last years so enjoyable.  We also wish to thank OSF Hospice for their assistance during Lorraine's illness.  Beloved mother, aunt and friend; she'll remain in our hearts forever.

Lorraine is survived by children Douglas (Lea Baker) DeMars of Bradenton FL and daughter Barbara DeMars of Rockford, several nieces and nephews, several great-nieces and great-nephews, many dear friends and beloved cat, Trixie.  She is predeceased by her parents, husband USN Carl DeMars, daughter-in-law Sharon DeMars, sister Virginia (Eugene) Stiles, nephew Steven R. (Luann) Stiles and sister-in-law Beverly (Harold) DeMars.

Celebration of Life Memorial to be held Saturday, May 4, 2019 at 11:30 a.m. at the Christenson Funeral Home, 925  3rd Avenue, with visitation from 10:30 a.m. until the time of services at 11:30 a.m.  Cremation rites accorded.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice in Lorraine's name.