Thomas John Castree, 78, of Rockford, Illinois passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 7, 2019 in Rockford surrounded by his family.

Tom was born in Rockford, Illinois to John and Sarah Castree on December 27, 1940.  He graduated from West High School in 1959 and went on to attend Western Michigan University where he received a degree in retail management. He was a veteran and served in the Army Reserves. He then worked as a manager for the family owned business, Castree PaceMaker Grocery Store for 20 years.  In 1965 he was voted grocer of the year by his peers.om married Judy D. Minnick on November 15, 1975 in Rockford, Illinois. Together, they raised 3 children and traveled extensively, but always enjoyed coming back to their beloved Riverview Cottage. Tom took great pride in his home, specifically his lawn and Judy’s gardens. Tom also was an avid golfer, loved to be surrounded by his family and friends, and was always up for a family gathering or cookout. Tom had a big personality and was always the life of the party.

Tom is preceded in death by his father John Thomas Castree, his mother Sarah Castree, and his beloved wife Judy D. Castree.

Survivors include his three children Jeffrey Castree (spouse-Vonnie Castree), Jacqueline Brady (spouse-D’Juane Fletcher), and Christopher Castree; his two siblings Rose Marie Lenz and Dottie Saladino; his grandchildren Keith Brady, Katelyn Brady, Garrett Sitas, Dilon Petzke, and Sam Petzke; and great granddaughter Naomi Grace Shelman, as well as many nieces and nephews.The family of Tom wishes to extend our sincere thanks to the entire staff at both Rockford Memorial and Javon Bea - Riverside Hospitals in Rockford, Illinois.