God received another angel December 9, 2016.  Dennis James Sturges, faithful servant, ended his journey here on Earth at home surrounded by love and his family. He was called home to be with his heavenly father and is ¨walking¨ with Jesus, now.  He was born on November 19, 1950 to Francis Ward Sturges and Mildred Mae (Dykeman) who both preceded him in death.   On March 11, 1976, he was blessed to have a son, Jason Sturges (Olivia).   November 15, 1986 Dennis married Cheryl Fowler Bye and became a loving father to Stephanie Bye Cordray (Andrew) and Bryan Bye (Angie Winchel) He loved and watched over his grandchildren Emma, Ian, and Jace Cordray,  James and Genoveve Bye and Emma Kelli and Glenn Winchel.

Dennis was one of six children. Preceded in death by his oldest sister Ellen (Leo) Hall, survived by his three brothers Peter (Linda) Sturges, Robert (Chris) Sturges, John (Judy) Sturges, and youngest sister Theresa (Bobby) Brown, 20 nieces and nephews, and numerous great-nieces and nephews.

He proudly served and protected his community for 30 years as a member of the Boone County Sheriff's department and Sheriff's patrol.  He helped with the crossing-guard picnics, and was a part of the honor guard.  He retired in 2002 as a shift Sergeant. He volunteered at his church, Zion Lutheran in Belvidere, Shattuck Grove Cemetery and was a Friend of Stone School as well as, lending a hand when anyone asked him. He really enjoyed his morning coffee group with Craig, Chad, Paul,  Jeff,  Will, and Tony, where many of the worlds problems were solved and much laughter was heard.  He rarely missed a morning with his mother-in-law Marguerite Fowler.

The family would like to thank friend, Tanya Hoemke and his sister, Terri for their special care while Dennis was ill.  They would also like to thank Carli and Amie from Northern Illinois Hospice. The care and support they provided to Dennis was truly appreciated.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 A.M., Friday, December 16, 2016 at Zion Lutheran Church, 1300 Pearl St. Belvidere, Il 61008 with Rev. Scott Stolberg officiating. Visitation will be held from 3:00P.M. to 8:00P.M. on Thursday, December 15, 2016 at Anderson Funeral and Cremation Services at Buck-Wheeler-Hyland Chapel, 218 W. Hurlbut Ave., Belvidere. Memorials can be given to the family to be distributed to various causes that Dennis supported. To light a candle or to share a memory please visit www.AndersonFCS.com.