Rockford, IllinoisDonald James Kennedy, 76 of Rockford, died Friday morning, June 18, 2010 surrounded by his loving family after a lengthy illness. Donald was born July 25, 1933 in Milwaukee, WI the son of James F. and Gertrude (Murphy) Kennedy. He graduated from St. Thomas High School and married the love of his life, Joyce Ruth (Stromquist) on November 10, 1951 in Rockford. Don was a glazier and in 1975 started his own company, Rock Valley Glass, retiring in 1998. He was an honorary lifetime member of NIBCA and Glaziers Local 1355. Don was a devout Catholic and was a member of St. Bernadette's Catholic Church for many years before joining St. Rita's Catholic Church. He enjoyed playing golf with his friends at Sandy Hollow, Ingersoll and Macktown, muskie fishing, bowling and was an avid Notre Dame football fan. Don was very proud of his family, his Irish heritage and celebrating St. Patrick's Day. He is loved and will be missed by his wife of 58 years, Joyce; children, Kathleen (Tony) Thompson of Jackson, TN, Daniel (Linda) Kennedy of Loves Park, Mary (Tom) Diemer of West Des Moines, IA, David (Cheri) Kennedy of Rockford, Michael Kennedy of Rockford; grandchildren, Katie Thompson, Carly Thompson, Dan Thompson, Ali Thompson, Karen (Andy) Dylak, Jenny (Matt) Simpson, Tim Kennedy, Ryan Diemer, Becky Diemer, Sean Diemer, Patrick Diemer, Lindsay Kennedy, Nichole Kennedy; great grandchildren, Jack Thompson and Kylie Simpson who was born on Don's 75th birthday. Don is predeceased by his parents; grandson, Liam Kennedy and Aunt Loretta.Don's family wishes to acknowledge and give their "Thanks" to the OSF Hospice staff for the excellent care and comfort they provided to the Kennedy family.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to the family.