LeRoy "Mel" Stephenson

LeRoy “Mel” Stephenson, 90, of Rockford, passed away on Wednesday, August 31, at his home, with his loving family by his side. Mel was born on July 27, 1921, in St. Paul, MN. He was the son of LeRoy and Emily Stephenson. LeRoy served his country in the United States Navy. He married Mary LaFasto on November 19, 1950 in Dubuque, IA. Mel worked as a Sheriff for Winnebago County, and then retired from the Illinois Toll Road. He loved to play golf, scoring a hole in one on 15 at Ingersoll Golf Course, he loved fishing, tinkering in the garage, writing poetry, and astronomy, becoming the Secretary of the Rockford Astronomy Club. LeRoy is survived by his wife of 60 years, Mary, son Dick (Jan) Alton of Rockford, IL, grandchildren; Todd Alton of Rockford, and Troy (Marmar) Alton of Madison, WI, great-grandchildren; Abby Alton of Rockford, and Arria Alton of Madison, WI, as well as a brother-in-law, several sisters-in-law, and nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Don Erickson, Raymond Stephenson, sister, Joan Stephenson, and special friend Dado Cramer. A memorial service will be held on Friday, September 9, 2011 at 10 a.m. at Sunset Funeral Home, 8800 N. Alpine Rd. Machesney Park, 61115 with Rev. Ron Meyer officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow the service at Sunset Memorial Gardens, where military honors will be conducted. The family would like to especially thank Dr. Willard Moore, and Louise, Raniel, Lawrence, Eduardo, Tedora, & Imelda of Transitions Hospice for their exceptional care. Please sign the online guestbook at www.sunsetfhmemgardens.com