Fred Block

FRED E. BLOCK STERLING- After an extended illness, Fred E. Block, 75, died peacefully in his home Tuesday, February 24, 2009, surrounded by his family. Fred Edward Block was born on April 27, 1933 in Rockford the son of Carl and Augusta (Goetz) Block. He attended Rockford schools and graduated from West High School. Fred served two years in the U.S Army. He graduated from Northern Illinois University with a degree in Music Education. He taught music in Chadwick and Morris. He also taught music at Christ Lutheran School in Sterling. He married Helen Ohms Block and was the father of four children: Jon (Deborah) Block, Julie (Steve) Pyle, Jeff (Bernie) Block and Karen (Steve) Danekas. He went into the music business as owner and manager of Bender and Block Music and Block Music. Fred was very active in his church, Messiah Evangelical Lutheran, as choir, orchestra and bell choir director. He served as an elder and congregational chairman. Fred enjoyed being with his family, gardening, fishing, traveling and watching the Cubs and Bears. Survivors include his wife, children and their spouses, seven grandchildren; four step-grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; two step great-grandchildren; and his sister, Sylvia Bashor of Lakeland, FL. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Carl. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 AM Saturday, February 28, 2009 at Messiah Evangelical Lutheran Church, Sterling, with the Reverend Patrick Pinion, pastor, officiating. Burial will be at Our Savior Lutheran Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4:30-7:30 PM Friday, at the Schilling Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers the family requests that memorials be directed to Christ Lutheran School or Messiah Evangelical Lutheran Church.