Byron B. Bailey

Byron B. Bailey, 90, of Rock Island, Illinois, formerly of Loveland, Colorado, passed away Wednesday, November 9, 2011 in Rock Island. A memorial service will be held at 11:30 am on Tuesday, November 15, 2011 in the Runge Mortuary Chapel. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. Memorials may be made to Davenport First Presbyterian Church. Online condolences may be made at www.rungemortuary.com.

Byron was born February 11, 1921 in Fairfield Township, Colorado, the son of Glenn and Mabel (Peterson) Bailey. He was a graduate of the Phillips County High School in Colorado and served in the U.S. Marine Corps during World War II. On October 17, 1943, he married Phyllis Knutsen in Haxtun, Colorado.

Following his Honorable Military Discharge, he farmed in western Iowa and eastern Colorado prior to a nearly thirty year career as a Tool and Die Machinist.

Byron was an ordained Elder in the Presbyterian Church. He and Phyllis enjoyed substantial gardening and travel, remaining connected to family members. Cribbage and crosswords were favorite pastimes.

Survivors include his wife Phyllis; children Larry (Diane) Bailey, Brent (Sandi) Bailey, and Diane (Glen) Roebuck; grandchildren: Michelle McNally, Eric Bailey, Stephanie Gripne, Kelley Martin, Lindsey Bailey, Rachel Bailey, Sarah Bailey, Kelsey Roebuck, and Emily Roebuck, and five great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by a daughter, Jan Gripne.