Rockford, ILRonald Wendell Hallstrom, 78, of Rockford, IL died Monday, July 23, 2012 in his home. He was born August 18, 1933 in Belvidere, IL son of Wendell and Mildred (Burton) Hallstrom. On December 24, 1955 he married Elva Gustafson in Silvis, IL.Ron graduated from West High School. He received his college degrees at NIU, earning his Ed.D in 1965, the first year they were awarded. After serving 2 years in the Army, he spent his career in education. He taught in public schools in Mount Carroll and Rockford. He was one of the first 3 employees in the establishment of Rock Valley College, initially serving as Business Manager and Dean of Vocational-Technical Education. He moved on to serve as Director of Rockford Regional Academic Center and Assistant Dean in the College of Continuing Education at NIU.Ron loved listening to and participating in music, especially big band and jazz. He played trumpet, trombone, and baritone in high school and college bands. He was a member of the orchestra in RVC's first musical "Finian's Rainbow".Ron was a long-time member of First Presbyterian Church, having served as Sunday school teacher, Sunday School Superintendent, and Elder. He was currently a member of Our Savior's Lutheran Church.Ron is loved and will be missed by his wife Elva; sons Daniel (Kathy) of Rockford, David (Eileen) of Evanston; granddaughters Frances, Mary, Sheila, Mathilda; brothers Robert (Nadine) of Rockford, Jerry (Helen) of New Holstein, WI; sister Marilyn (Richard) of Madison, WI. He is predeceased by parents and brother Larry.

Memorials can be given in care of Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Ronald's memory.