Raymond E. Panzke Sr., 78, of Rockford died March 20, 2015 in his home after a brief illness. Born June 23, 1936 in Chicago, son of Raymond and Virginia (Reetz) Panzke . Raymond served in the United States Army, retiring after 19 years. Married Elizabeth "Betty" Glenn. Formerly employed as a machinist and as the owner of Ray and Sons Salvage in Chicago. Ray was a father, grandfather and great-grandfather and so much more. He was loved by so many, and cherished as well. Raymond was the backbone of his family and will be missed dearly. He enjoyed watching the Bears. Survived by his son, Raymond E. Panzke Jr. of Centralia; granddaughters, Samantha and Robin Panzke of Rockford and Holly Panzke of Humboldt, TN; great-grandchildren, Matthew Krispin Jr. of Rockford, Faith Marie Rivas of IN, Kaley and Melanie Moore of TN and Zachary Moore of Rockford; siblings, Phil (Colleen) Panzke of Chicago, James (Carmen) Panzke of Chicago, Bobby (Brenda) Panzke of Chicago, Tommy (Janie) Panzke of Palatine and Kathy Hedtke of Chicago; nieces and nephews, Tina Helton Hernandez, Flora Panzke, Brandy Freytes, Bobbi Johns, Kim Panzke, Ross Panzke, Johnny Hernandez, Natalie Panzke, Bobby Panzke, Carrie Johns, Carla Johns, Robert Hatchco, Sherrie Hatchco, Lisa Burns Panzke, Christopher Freytes and Alexandria Krispin. Preceded in death by his parents, wife, Betty; and siblings, Janet Duras, Karen Hernandez, Ross, Russell, Donald, Marvin and Ricky Panzke, and beloved dog Daisy. Private family services at a later date. Grace Funeral & Cremation Services in Rockford assisted the family. To share a memory or condolence, visit www.graceFH.com .