Brian Wessling

Brian Henry Wessling, 76, of Rockford, IL, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on June 14, 2026. Brian was born March 8, 1950, to Henry and Violet Wessling, in Chicago, Illinois.

He graduated from Fenger High School in 1967 and attended Western Illinois University. He followed in his father's footsteps and began working for S.S. Kresge Company, where he met Kim Stratton, who would become his wife. Though their marriage ended, they shared four beautiful children. As S.S. Kresge evolved into the retail giant K-Mart Corporation, he advanced in his career. He opened the K-Mart in Belvidere and spent much of his almost 40-year career there as the store manager. He was a fair and beloved boss to the many employees under his care. He was involved in both the communities he worked and lived in, including Rotary Club, PTO, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, AYSO Soccer as a referee and coach, and volunteered at the local Food Pantry. He was a kind, generous, and helpful neighbor.

Brian was a proud, loving, and devoted father and grandfather. His greatest joy came from spending time with his family. From the everyday ordinary moments of just getting together for dinner and playing cards, to his cheering on his grandchildren at their basketball, soccer and volleyball games, swim meets and wrestling matches, band and theater performances, award ceremonies and graduations. He was active and present in his children’s and grandchildren’s lives. No matter how near or far he lived from them, he always offered his unwavering support and love.

Brian started every morning whistling or singing a happy tune. He firmly believed that beginning each day with happiness and a positive attitude would get you through whatever was in store. He approached life with a tremendous amount of humor and his wit was unmatched.

Brian loved golf and getting together for breakfast with his former K-Mart buddies. He enjoyed listening to all kinds of music, often commenting on how songs would evoke memories and feelings from different periods of his life. He was a lifelong fan of the Chicago White Sox and the Chicago Bears and loved sports talk radio.

Preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Violet Wessling, his son, Michael Wessling and his former sister-in-law Jill Bennett.
He is survived and deeply missed by his daughters, Karie (Jay) Wright, Kellie (Tom Wunders) Wessling, and Katie (Jake) Hartjes; his seven grandchildren: Jackie, Kaitline, Ethan, Chase, Riley, Gavin, and Josie; his siblings: Gayle (Bill) Axelson, Warren (Nancy) Wessling, many nieces, nephews, friends, and his loyal canine companion, Chuck, who loved him dearly.

In lieu of flowers and to help fulfill his wish of "killing what killed" him, please donate to Pancreatic Cancer Action Network at www.PanCan.org.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.