Robert A. Strong, 83, of Rockford passed away surrounded by his family after a long illness Wednesday, December 11, 2013. He was born in Rockford on February 28, 1930, son of Arthur and Ethel (Bledsoe) Strong. Robert served his country during the Korean War. Robert married Mildred Eckburg in 1967. He worked as a truck driver for 43 years for Dohrn Transfer, Halls Transfer and Consolidated Freightways. He was dedicated to his Lord Jesus Christ and to his family. He is survived by his loving wife, Mildred; two daughters, Karen Strong and Kathi (Pat) Ley; two grandchildren, Hannah and Samuel Ley; and nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents and sisters, Rhoda Wilbanks and Ruth Paul. Funeral Service Monday, December 16, 2013 at 12:00 p.m. at Grace Funeral & Cremation Services, 1340 South Alpine Rd. Rockford. Rev. James Bellair will officiate. Visitation from 11 a.m. until the time of service. Private interment in Scandinavian Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Rockford Rescue Mission or Northern Illinois Hospice and Grief Center. To share a memory or condolence, visit www.graceFH.com .