Carl R. Granath

Carl Rutherford Granath, 52 of Rockford, IL, died unexpectedly in his home on Sunday, December 11, 2016. A life well celebrated, Carl was a devoted husband, loving father to his three children, a caring son and brother, and a good friend to many. He was born March 2, 1964, in Chicago, to John and Janet (Rutherford) Granath. On March 25, 2000, he married his sweetheart Dawn Richter, together they celebrated 16 years while raising their children, Andrew, Emma and Benjamin; the Triplets. Carl graduated from New Trier High School and U.W. Wisconsin, Stout. Music was his passion. He appreciated the value and worth of each instrument and the lyrics that accompanied them. Often times he would pack his tent to attend a well anticipated concert. Carl cared deeply for his children, attending all of their sports activities and band concerts, exposing them to worldly knowledge, and just pure fun. Andy’s fondest memory of dad is” going to the Lake House and having him swim, also his love for music,” Emma,”loved seeing her dad at her volleyball games,” and Ben,” In 6th grade football, dad came to all the games and practices.”

Carl was a Democratic Precinct Committee Person and volunteered for the Greenwich Village Art Fair, attending many music festivals.

Carl is survived by mother, Jan; wife, Dawn; children, Andy, Emma and Ben all 15 yrs. old; brothers, Jack (Alice Pierson) Granath, Tom (Marie) Granath; David and Dianne Richter (father and mother in law), Debbi (Mike) Pettersen(sister in law), nieces Madaysn and Isabella; and many good friends. Predeceased by father, John Granath 2003.

Celebration of Life: 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 17, at Unitarian Universalist Church 4848 Turner St. Rockford, IL. Visitation: 4:00 ~ 7:00 p.m. Fri. Dec. 16, at Sunset Funeral Home 8800 N. Alpine Rd. Machesney Park, IL. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Northern Public Radio (WNIJ). Express condolences www.sunsetfhmemgardens.com