Thomas "Tom" Conrad

Thomas “Tom” D. Conrad, 89, of Machesney Park was reunited with the love of his life, Helen.  He passed away peacefully Sunday, February 21, 2021, in SwedishAmerican Hospital.  Born August 7, 1931, at the family home in Fonda, Iowa, the son of the late Wendal M. and Eulalia (Lilly) Conrad.  Veteran of the Korean Conflict, serving in the U.S. Army from 1952 to 1954.  Married Helen Ardell Stoner on February 26, 1955, in Pocahontas, Iowa.  Tom and Helen farmed in Fonda until moving to Rockford in the 1960’s.  Retired from Ingersoll Milling Machine Company after 38 years.  Volunteered at Cor Mariae planting and watering flowers around the building and helping residents attend Masses.  Also, volunteered with Women’s Space helping them with the Glitzy Garage Sale Fund Raiser.  As an avid vegetable gardener and farmer all of his life, he will be remembered for his generosity by giving away the bounty of his produce to the Food Pantry, friends and neighbors.  Through his caring nature and quick wit, he developed many friendships, especially those at Cor Mariae.  He will be missed dearly by all who knew him.  Survivors include his devoted daughters, Shawn (Ken Dull) Conrad and Val (Greg) Galen; his cherished grandchildren, Paige, Erin, and Scott; sister, Mary Casey; numerous nieces and nephews; and great-nephew, Patrick.  Predeceased by his parents; wife; and brothers, Robert (Lois) and Bill Conrad.  Special thank you to Dan and Deb Burton, true and loyal friends.

Mass of Christian Burial Service at 11 a.m. Friday, February 26, 2021, in St. Bridget Catholic Church, 600 Clifford Ave., Loves Park.  Burial in Sunset Memorial Gardens.  Walk through visitation from 10 to 10:45 a.m. Friday, in Delehanty Funeral Home, Ltd., 401 River Lane, Loves Park, with social distancing and face coverings required.  In lieu of flowers, memorials to the family for a memorial at St. Bridget Catholic Church and Women’s Space.