Charles “Rusty” Hamilton Jr., 68, of Rockford, Illinois, passed away on February 9, 2026, after a brief illness. Rusty was born on January 20, 1958, in Rockford, to Barbara and Charles Hamilton Sr. Rusty faithfully served his country in the United States Air Force for six years. He then worked at Rockford Product and Camcar Textron as a machinist, and more recently at PCI for 10 years as a line leader. On September 20, 1989, Rusty married Patty Southerland, and made countless memories together.
Rusty enjoyed a nice ride on his motorcycle, as well as playing his guitar. Rusty played in a local band in high school as he appreciated music throughout his entire life. He always had a good joke in his back pocket.
Rusty is survived by his wife of nearly 37 years, Patty; brother, Dusty Hamilton; sister-in-law, Barbara (Michael) Hodyniak; brother-in-law, Tom Cook; nieces and nephews, Ray Lucero, Kristen Steele, Justin Hamilton, Jason Hamilton, Chevon Gooch, Holly Veitch, Matt Wollitz, Jessica and Josh Evans.
Rusty had a special love for animals, and it would be an honor for you to contribute in his memory in lieu of flowers to Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary, 111 North 1st Street, Rockford, Illinois 61107.
