Joseph Vincent Gelazus Jr., 79, passed away on Saturday, October 1st, 2011. Joe was born on January 15, 1932 in Rockford IL and was an Army veteran, having served honorably in the Korean Conflict era. He worked as a quality inspector at Sundstrand in Rockford for many years. Joe was an avid fisherman, a loyal friend, very patriotic, and was an American Legion member for many years. Joe is survived by three children, Charles (Cheryl) Gelazus, Susan (Carl) Brishaber and Jean (Paul) Hollister and his sister, Lydia Carroll. He is also survived by his life partner, Martha L. Johnson and her family, including Wayne (Diane) Johnson; Bill (Lois) Johnson; Jerry Johnson and Patricia (Dave) Murphy. He has many loving grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Joe enjoyed many friendships, including life-long friend Gail Turpin. Joe was preceded in death by his youngest daughter, JoDiane (Bob) Stromack, his mother, Stella (Bondick Gelazus) Streiff and father, Joseph Vincent Gelazus. His family and friends will miss him, his sense of humor and generous spirit immensely. A memorial service will be held at Gentle Shepherd Fellowship, 2905 Bildahl St, Rockford IL on Saturday, October 15, 2011. Visitation from 2 – 3 p.m and a memorial service from 3 – 3:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials to the family for donation.