Holly J. LaFontaine

Holly Jean LaFontaine, 70, of New Milford, IL, transitioned peacefully on Friday, September 11, 2026, with her loving daughter by her side. She was born on February 5, 1956, in Clinton, IA, the beloved only daughter of the late Richard and Elletta “Jeannie” (Kooi) Mueller. She married Thomas LaFontaine at Church by the Side of the Road in Rockton, IL, on July 4, 1992. Holly loved photography, gardening, planting flowers, and feeding all sorts of wildlife that found refuge in her backyard. More than anything, Mrs. Holly LOVED to go fishing, she was happiest along the shore (or on the piers in Florida) of her favorite fishing spots and always enjoyed teaching children the joy of fishing as well. Holly asked to mention; if anyone wonders why she is missing just tell them she’s gone fishing!

She is survived and lovingly remembered by her husband Thomas LaFontaine; daughters Cheryl (Brian) Mueller-Ling and April (Barry) Lawrence; grandchildren Aubrey Ling, Trevor Mitchell, Ave and Arie Lawrence; aunt Ruth Fernandez; and cousins Judi, Lisa, Michael, Julie, and Kathy. She is preceded in death by her parents, Richard and Elletta; uncle David Kooi; aunts Mary Jane Vetter and Doris Graham; and cousin Bonnie Rose Graham-Worley.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the excellent care and compassion Holly and her family received from the nurses in the 2N and 2S towers of OSF St. Anthony Medical Center along with the Northern Illinois Hospice care team.

A Celebration of Life will take place at 1 pm, Saturday, September 19, 2026, at New Milford Cemetery, 2601 New Milford School Road, Rockford, IL 61109. Stateline Cremations is assisting the family, 6204 Forest Hills, Rd., Loves Park, IL 61111. www.statelinecremations.com