Henry “Bill” Billert, Jr.

Henry “Bill” Billert, Jr., 86, formerly of Rockford, Ill., passed away on Monday, Feb. 5, 2024.

Memorial services were on Wednesday, Feb. 21, at Alpine Lutheran Church, Rockford.

Born April 1, 1937, in Boston, Mass., the son of Henry and Genevieve (Mikulski) Billert, Sr., he was a graduate of West High School, Class of 1955 and attended Rockford College. He was a Veteran of the U.S. Navy. Bill married Donna Smidt.  They were married for 27 years before she passed away on March 2, 1993.  Later, he married Diane Nelson Vittetow on April 24, 1999, at Alpine Lutheran Church.  He worked for Nordic Forge for many years.  Bill was a member of Alpine Lutheran Church and loved his church family.  He was a Mason for 50 plus years.  Bill was a good golfer, experienced traveling all over the Mediterranean while in the Navy, and later loved to travel with his wife.

He is survived by his wife, Diane; daughters, Krista C. Billert and Deann (Robert) Pennington of Ga.; three grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents; first wife, Donna; and daughter, Debra Mielczarek.  

The family would like to thank the staff at Golden Years of Walworth, Badger Hospice and all of the nurses and healthcare workers through Bill’s journey.

Memorials may be made to the Alpine Lutheran Church and Rockford Rescue Mission.  To share a memory or condolence, please visit olsonfh.com