Dena G. Gittleson, age 100, passed away on Friday, July 1, 2016 at the St. Anthony Medical Center in Rockford. On September 20, 100 years ago, Dena Schabacker was born to German immigrant parents making her the youngest of eight children. Dena was the only one born in America. They lived on farms near Rochelle, Ashton and Flagg Center. In 1934, she married Milo Gittleson, her husband of 60 years before his passing in 1994. In 1972, Milo and Dena bought a ranch and added a western store which became known as Diamond G Ranch and Western Store. Diamond G has been open for the past 45 years, and remains in operation today. Dena loved her family, horses and supporting the local 4-H and FFA clubs. She is preceded in death by her 7 siblings: Carl Dilling, Martha Felgenhauer, Fred Schabacker, Caroline Eckhardt, Henry Schabacker, Elizabeth Kober, and Adam Schabacker.

She is survived by two daughters, Sandy Rogers of Rochelle, and Donna (Jerry) Sassaman of Chana; grandson, Kevin (Ginger) Rogers; 3 great grandchildren: Nolan Rogers, Taylor Rogers, and Skylar Black and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral service will be at 2 PM on Wednesday, July 6, 2016 at the First Presbyterian Church with Rev. Dr. James Tilley officiating. Visitation will also be on Wednesday from 1 - 2 pm prior to the funeral at the Church. Burial at Trinity Memory Gardens. Memorials may be made to the Ogle County 4-H or Rochelle FFA. Unger Horner Funeral Home is assisting family with arrangements. Visit www.UngerHorner.com online guest book.