Donald L. Gulbrantson

Donald “Papa” Gulbrantson, 68, of Machesney Park, passed away on Thursday, January 13, 2011 at home. Born November 8, 1942 in Rockford, the son of Lief and Irene (Johnson) Gulbrantson. Married Judy Diane (Carroll) Gulbrantson on September 10, 1988. Retired from Powertrain after 31 years and was employed by Rockford Park District. He was a Lance Corporal U.S. Marine Corps. Don enjoyed his family, spending time with his grandchildren, trips to Las Vegas, golfing, fishing and was an avid Bears Fan. Survivors include wife, Diane; daughters, Donna (Ralph) Rowin, Kim (Dan) Nuttall; step-daughter, Sheila (Lorron) Strahorn; step-son, Steve Van Barriger; grandchildren, Judy Nuttall, Amber, Anna, Alec “Happy” Strahorn, Paul and Donnie Van Barriger, Jason, Chad , Tyler and Diana Rowin, Alex Alviar; mother-in-law, Doris Carroll; siblings, Janice Shattuck and Karen (Bob ) Taylor, Wanda (Dennis) Beck, Ron (Donna) Carroll, Odell (Lisa) Carroll, Donna (Jerry) Holloway, Robert Carroll, Theresa (Will) Ives, Marge (Gary) Gyllenswan, Jeanette Crowell, Dick (Carol) Newkirk, Tom Newkirk and many special nieces, nephews and friends. Predeceased by his parents; first wife, Judy (Newkirk) Gulbrantson; sister, Joyce (Dick) Altendorf; brothers-in-law, Willard Shattuck, Ron and Bob Newkirk and sister-in-law, Sally (Ron) McBain. Memorial service at 10 am on Friday, January 21, 2011 in Sunset Funeral Home, 8800 N. Alpine Rd. Visitation 1 hour prior to the service. Cremation rites have been accorded. Inurnment in Willwood Burial Park. Tributes to the family at www.sunsetfhmemgardens.com