Lee Owen Rosenstiel

February 4, 1924 - April 12, 2022

Lee Owen Rosenstiel 98, passed away peacefully at his home Tuesday April 12, 2022. He was born February 4, 1924, to Elbridge and Gladys Rosenstiel. Lee grew up in McConnell, IL. He attended Winslow High School where he met and married Rozella Joyce Harney on August 9, 1945. Lee and Joyce had two sons, Michael Lee Rosenstiel and Richard Lee Rosenstiel. Lee had a deep love of country and enlisted in the Navy. He served in World War II as a signalman and participated during the Invasion of Normandy. Ever an optimist and lover of life, Lee spent his life seizing opportunities as the owner of Freeport restaurants Snitzel’s and the Attic and beloved grocery store, Lee’s Market. On April 7, 1990, Lee married Nancy Anderson. Lee and Nancy lived in North Carolina and enjoyed time with Nancy’s family and traveling. Lee was a lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the ELKS Club. Lee spent his most recent years in Rockford, IL with his son Dick. He was lovingly cared for by Natalie Rosenstiel and Evelyn Schnupp. Through the years they watched countless sporting events, enjoyed friendly wagers, and celebrated the Cubs World Series win! He cherished their care and companionship. A sports enthusiast, Lee was a lifelong DUKE fan; a tradition passed on to many of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Lee will be remembered for his joyful appreciation of life, his patriotism, the smile on his face, and always having a great joke to tell! The family extends their gratitude to Promedica Hospice for their kind care and for enriching Lee’s life. Lee was predeceased by his son Michael Lee, wife Nancy, brother and sister-in-law Robert and Edna, infant brother Lyle, and his parents. He is survived by his son Richard Lee (Sharon Miller), step-children Carla (Barry) Morris, Kim (John) Ligotino, Jason (Nancy) Anderson, daughter-in-law Natalie Rosenstiel and Bonnie Robertson, grandchildren Michael Rosenstiel, Patrick (Jennifer) Rosenstiel, Brandi (Geoff) Lasco, Tracey (Andrew) Gustafson, Jacqueline Rosenstiel-Graff, Richard (Rebecca) Rosenstiel, 13 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great granddaughter. He is also survived by nieces and nephews Diane Rosenstiel, Pam Solace, Jack (Zelda) Staas, Jim (Cynthia) Staas, Patty McAnelly, and Dan Cover. Funeral Mass will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday April 20, 2022, at St. Joseph Catholic Church. Fr. Timothy Barr will officiate. Visitation 9:30 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will be in Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts will be given to the Wounded Warrior Project.