MACHESNEY PARK, Ill. - Byron K. Broge, 71, passed away on Tuesday, January 10, 2012 at his home surrounded by his family after fighting a battle with cancer. Born on November 29, 1940 in Monroe, WI. Byron was a truck driver employed by Almond Freight until he retired in 2003. He served as a Union steward, Teamsters 325 and was a member of the Blackhawk Club. As part of his every morning routine he gathered with a group of friends and went out to breakfast. He was a driver for the Pigeon Club, transporting the pigeons to a destination spot. During the summer months he could be found at the Rockford Speedway cheering on his daughter, Tammy and son-in-law, Lloyd or camping with friends at KOA in Lena, Il. Byron had a big heart for everybody. A heartfelt thanks to special friend, Tony Dzik.

Survived by wife, Ruth of 42 years; daughters, Kim Broge and Tammy (Lloyd) Hawkins; brothers, Gary "Cork" (Judy) Broge and Bill Broge; sisters, Carol Bayrhoffer, Bonnie Broge, Joyce (Willie) Wahl and Diane (Tony) Jones; grandchildren, Stevie, Zackary, Elliott, Brandon, Justin and Austin; sister-in-law, Donna; brother-in-law, Dave. Predeceased by parents; brothers, Virgil and Russ and sister, Sharon.

Memorial gathering will be held from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Friday, January 13, 2012 at Blackhawk Club, 2023 Broadway, Rockford Il. To share a memory or express condolences, please visit www.honquestfh.com. Honquest Family Funeral Home with Crematory, Rockford Chapel, 4311 N. Mulford, is honored to have assisted the family.