Rochelle

John William "Bill" Stocking, 78, passed away after a short illness, Monday morning August 21, 2023 at Franklin Grove Nursing Home in Franklin Grove, Illinois, under the care of Serenity Hospice.

Bill was born to Clair and Lillian (Lovig) Stocking October 3, 1944 in Rochelle, IL.  He was baptized at St. John's Lutheran Church in Creston, IL.

He is survived by his sister, Dorothy Lockard of Creston; brother, Lee (Pat) Stocking of Mendota, IL; godchild, Jonathan William Clair Coulter; numerous nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews, cousins and many friends.

In addition to his parents, Bill was predeceased by his paternal grandparents, George and Emily (Manger) Stocking; maternal grandparents, John and Louisa (Erickson) Lovig; brothers: Clair Jr., David Lynn and George Robert Stocking; his sisters: Gladys Mildred and husband, Wayne Bogle, Mary Louise and husband, Leonard Mars; nephews: Jeffrey, Gary and Bruce Bogle and great nephew, Jamie Coulter.

Bill helped farm with his dad until his dad retired from farming.  He continued to work at the Rochelle Park District until he retired after 40 years.

Bill loved helping people in their yards, attending local youth baseball games, coffee and lunch with his friends at the Rochelle Community Hospital and playing slots.  He also liked antiquing and spent many hours at the Flagg Township Historic Society attending their different events.  The last few years, he enjoyed driving around town, with his famous license plate, "I'm Bill3", visiting whomever was out in their yard.

As per Bill's request, there will be no service.  If anyone wishes to donate in Bill's memory, you may do so to either the Flagg Township Historic Society in Rochelle or to Serenity Hospice and Home in Oregon, IL.  Thanks to all who cared for Bill the last two months.  Cremation care has been provided by the Unger-Horner Funeral Home in Rochelle, IL.  Visit www.ungerhorner.com to sign the online guest book.