Mr. Maurice M. Bolte Sr.

Maurice M. Bolte Sr., 94, of Rockford passed away Friday, August 17, 2012, at his home, surrounded by his family. He was born on Dec. 3, 1917 in Rockford to Henry and Effie (Housholder) Bolte. He married Sarah C. Gagliano on November 24, 1941 in Rockford.

A WWII Marine Veteran, Maurice served his country in battle against the enemy at Okinawa, Ryukyu Island from April until June of 1945 and participated in the occupation of China from September of 1945 until March of 1946.

Maurice was a Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, and Explore Troop Leader, a member of American Legion, Post #60, a lifelong member of Rockford Odd Fellows and Court Street United Methodist Church. He was formerly employed by the Rockford Board of Education, Burson Knitting Company, and Rockford Bolt & Steel.

He is survived by his son, Maurice M. Bolte Jr.; his grandchildren, Andrea (Richard) Nickels, Paul Bolte, Josh (Heather) Bolte, Sarah Grace (Matthew) Edwards, Meghan Bolte, and Robert Bolte Jr.; great-grandchildren, Breanna R. and Jacob T. Nickels; daughters in law, Robin Bolte and Linda Bolte; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, his parents, his sons, Robert E. Bolte, Sr., and Richard W. Bolte; and his sister, Betty Bolte.

A special thanks to his caregivers, Ganaa, Uka, and Dumba.

Services will be held Saturday, August 25, 2012 at 2 p.m., at Sunset Funeral Home, 8800 N. Alpine Road, Machesney Park. Pastor Calvin Culpepper will be officiating. Visitation from 12 p.m. to time of service at 2 p.m. Entombment will follow in Sunset Memorial Gardens. Online condolences may be submitted at www.sunsetfhmemgardens.com