Bill Now

William F. Now, 84, Rockford, died Tuesday, November, 20, 2012, at 7:10 p.m. at Lutheran Hospital, Ft. Wayne, Indiana. He was born August 1, 1928, in Mishawaka, Indiana, to Jay W. and Thelma (Siler) Now. On December 9, 1949, he married Mary Jane Vorhees, who survives in Rockford. Also surviving are two sons: Randy Jay (Lauren) Now, Lompoc, California, and Bradley Now, Rockford; one sister: Shirley Roebuck, Celina; two granddaughters: Christi (Shawn) Robinson, and Jenelyn Now, both of California; one great-granddaughter: Alexandra Robinson. Deceased are one brother: Jack Now; and one sister: Jean Sweigart. He served in the U.S. Navy during WWII from 1945 to 1946, and during the Korean War in 1952-1954. He retired from The Fremont Company, Rockford, where he was the Agriculture Manager. He served on the Board of Directors and Past President of the Ohio Food Processors Association, four years on Rockford Village Council, served four years on the Board of Public Affairs for water department in Rockford, and twelve years as a member of the Parkway Board of Education. He was a member of the Rockford Fire Department for thirty years, past Master of Shanes Lodge #377 F& AM, Fraternal Order of Eagles #1292, American Legion Post #508, and member of the First Presbyterian Church, Rockford. Very active in the Youth for Understanding, which is the organization affiliated with the Foreign Exchange Student Program. Over the years, the family hosted thirteen exchange students. Funeral Services will be Monday, November 26, 2012, at 7 p.m. at Ketcham-Ripley Funeral Home, Rockford, with Pastor Mark Rutledge officiating. Viewing will be Monday from 2-7 p.m. at the funeral home. A Masonic service will be held at 6 p.m. Memorials may be directed to Shane's Park, Rockford.