Obituary

Obituary for Roland Herbert Edwards
Roland Herbert Edwards, 93, of Rockford died on October 6, 2022 in his home. Born June 10, 1929 in Clinton, IA, son of Alvin and Dorothy (Comstock) Edwards. United in marriage to Patricia Marvel on October 7, 1950. Roland was a carpenter, formerly employed at Pierce Butler, and was a Superintendent for John Fridh. Member of Carpenters Union Local 792. The highlight of Roland's career was his involvement in the restoration of Court Street United Methodist Church after the fire in 1969. Roland's gruff exterior hid a kind and loving heart. On a construction job, he observed a man looking for food in a trash can. The following day, Roland brought a sandwich to the job and left it on the bench for the man; a practice that he continued daily for the year long duration of the project. He was an incredibly hard worker, working two jobs throughout the majority of his career to support his large family. He built beautiful cradles, rockers, tables, toy boxes and birdhouses. In his free time, he enjoyed grilling out, his annual Father's Day picnic, and gathering with his family for the holidays. His favorite meals were spaghetti, chicken and prime rib. Roland loved traveling on long weekend trips to Las Vegas, Branson and Door County along with many other destinations. He enjoyed golfing, and was proud of his two hole in ones, fishing and bowling in his younger years. Survived by his children, Roland (Roberta) Edwards, Michael Edwards, David (Penny) Edwards, Bradley Edwards, Kim (Glen) Ford, Kathleen Smith, Karen (Garry) McGregor, Kay Lonergan, Diane (Todd) Schwebke; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Preceded in death by his parents, wife, daughter, Kristine Edwards Zaug, daughter-in-law, Kelly Edwards; sons-in-law, Steve Smith and Joe Lonergan, grandson Eddie Molitor, granddaughter, Amanda Hammack-Garrison; special friend, Joanne Carlson. Special thank you to his Daughter Kay for being his Caregiver for the past year. Special thank you to Dr. Rizzo, nurse Gina and Mercyhealth Hospice of Illinois. Visitation October 13, 2022 from 10:00 am to 11:00 am, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 am at Grace Funeral & Cremation Services, 4301 N. Main St. Rockford. Pastor Dan Herman will officiate. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family. Live stream of the service can be viewed here: https://my.gather.app/remember/roland-herbert-edwards Interment in Scandinavian Cemetery. Share a memory or condolence at www.graceFH.com.