Charles E. Berglund

Charles E. Berglund, 99, of Rockford, went to his heavenly home on Saturday, November 15, 2025 at Fairhaven Christian Retirement Center. He spent his last eleven months in the Health Center at Fairhaven. The family wishes to thank the HC staff for their loving care. CNAs Sheila and Magalie were very special caregivers. Charlie was born October 30, 1926, in Rockford; the son of Hjalmer and Myrtle (Johnson) Berglund. After graduation from East High School in 1944 he enlisted in the U.S. Navy at the age of 17, and served for two years during the end of World War II. Upon returning from service he began employment at Mechanics Universal Joint-Borg Warner where he would spend almost his entire career as a purchasing agent. After retirement, he worked for about 3 years as a sales representative for Superior Broach Company of Detroit, Michigan. He was united in marriage with the love of his life Dorene (Anderson) on October 6, 1950. Charles became a Christian at a very young age and was a member of First Covenant Church for many years, serving in a number of roles: elder board member, Sunday School and Bible Study teacher, and singing in the male chorus, choir and a quartet. He was an avid student of scripture and had a deep love and respect for the effectiveness of strong Biblical preaching. Charles enjoyed golf (most of the time) and had a special fondness for motor scooters. A motorcycle accident in 1991 resulted in two brain surgeries, but God in His grace healed him completely. Charles and Dorene loved spending time with family and traveled a fair amount. Two cruises to Alaska with Jeff and Colleen and a Bahamas cruise featuring southern gospel artists were highlights. Charles and Dorene displayed an exemplary marriage and were the most wonderful parents. He was a faithful caregiver to Dorene as she walked the road of dementia. After her passing in 2016, he faithfully soldiered on, learning to live with one eye after unsuccessful cateract surgery. After living with declining health especially in the last year and a half, he is now completely whole and healed in the presence of his Savior. He is survived by his son Jeff (Colleen) Berglund of Bloomington, Mn; sisters Carolyn Crawford and Katy Rathfon, cousin Arlene Rippentrop and several nieces and nephews. Predeceased by parents, wife Dorene, brother Burton (and sister-in-law Greta), brother-in-law Leonard Rathfon, brother-in-law Donald Anderson (and sister-in-law Barbara). Memorial service on Wednesday, November 19, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. at Fairhaven Christian Retirement Center, 3470 North Alpine Road, with Reverend Steve Rachke officiating. Visitation from noon to 12:45 p.m. prior to the service at Fairhaven. Private graveside service at Arlington Memorial Park. Memorials to Rockford Rescue Mission, 715 West State Street, Rockford, Illinois 61102, in lieu of flowers. Arrangements by Grace Funeral and Cremation Services, 4301 North Main Street, Rockford, Illinois 61103.

Charles E. Berglund

October 30, 1926 - November 15, 2025