Laurel Jean Kitzmiller, 63, Oregon, died Saturday, Dec. 31, 2011 at Swedish-American Hospital, Rockford.

She was born June 9, 1948 in Oregon, the daughter of Russell and Margaret (Pasdertz) Jones.

She graduated from Sparta High School in 1966.

She married Charles Kitmiller on Jan. 13, 1968, and they lived their 43 years together in Oregon.

She was employed 32 years at Community Bank of Oregon.

She liked nothing better than being a Grandma.

She spent as much time as she could doing anything and everything with her grandkids. The bigger the mess, the more fun it was.

She could be found playing at the park, having her pretend broken arm fixed, or simply playing on the floor.

She also very much enjoyed digging in the dirt. She loved spending time gardening and working in her flower beds.

She is survived by her husband, Charlie, Oregon; sons, Dave (Raina) Kitzmiller, Jerseyville, and Jim (Jennifer) Kitzmiller, Oregon; grandchildren, Addison, Ashlyn, Avery, and Cade; brothers, Donald (Clarice) Jones, Percy, Edward Jones, Oregon, Urban Jones, Rockford and John (Joni) Jones, Oregon; and sisters, Susan (Thomas) McCollom, Mendota, and Mary (Lawrence) Terry, Buda.

She was predeceased by her parents.

Kitzmiller will miss her dog Spots, but will be happy to see Tony, Lucky, Bernie, Buddy, Tanner, and Buck.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, Jan. 7 at 2 p.m. at Farrell-Holland-Gale Funeral Home, Oregon, preceded by visitation beginning at 12 noon. Pastor Richard Bright, chaplain at Pinecrest Manor, will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, the family would prefer memorial contributions be made to St. Jude's Children's Hospital in Kitzmiller's name.

Visit www.farrellhollandgale.com to leave online condolences.