Kenneth A. Atz, age 80 of Rockford, formerly of Dakota, IL, passed away Thursday, January 12, 2017 at OSF St. Anthony Medical Center in Rockford. He was born February 11, 1936; the son of the late Ralph and Sarah (Eberle) Atz. He graduated from Dakota High School with the class of 1954. He served in the United States Army as a paratrooper stationed in Ft. Bragg, CA.
Kenneth married Barbara A. Walker on September 9, 1978 at the Dakota United Methodist Church where he was also member. He had worked as a programmer in the computer industry and as a warranty repair specialist in the airline industry. He enjoyed golfing, going to Dakota football and basketball games, and he loved riding his motorcycle. He loved spending time with family, especially holiday gatherings and he was very proud of his children.
Kenneth is survived by his wife, Barbara A. Atz of Rockford; two sons, Terry (Julie) Atz of Freeport and Gregory Atz of Freeport, IL; step-daughter, Karen (Joel) Wise of Freeport; grandchildren, Kirsten Atz, Caleb Wise, Jared Wise, Adam Wise, Aaron Wise, and James Wise; sister-in-law, Judith Atz of Dakota; 1 great grandson and three nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Ricky Atz; step-son, Donald Erb; and brother, Robert L. Atz.
Funeral services will be held Friday, January 20th at 11:00 a.m. at the Freeport Mennonite Church with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. Interment will take place at the Dakota Cemetery in Dakota, IL. A memorial fund has been established in his name.