Lorene "Sis" Benzel

Lorene “Sis” Ruth Benzel, 95, of Rockford, IL formerly of Belvidere, IL passed away on Monday, May 29, 2023. She was born on September 15, 1927, on the family farm in New Glarus, WI to the late Clarence J. and Amelia (Schiesser) Hoesly. She graduated from New Glarus High School, earned her B.S. degree from UW-LaCrosse, and her M.S. degree from Northern Illinois University. She taught physical education in the Belvidere School System for 20 years and was employed by the State of Illinois as a caseworker for 12 years. Sis enjoyed outdoor activities, traveling, and volunteering for several organizations. She was an active member of First Presbyterian Church, Sister Cities of Belvidere, Friends of Ida Public Library, and BCCA Auxillary. She was also a member of the National Education Association, Illinois Retired Teachers Association, and the Boone Retired Teachers Association. She was proud of her Swiss heritage and was fortunate enough to visit the ancestral homeland several times. Sis is loved and will be deeply missed by her grandchildren, Jonathan Maxwell, Justin (Megan) Benzel, Jocelyn Greene, Jennifer Benzel, Amy Benzel; great grandchildren, Jordan Greene, Gavin Lake, Avery Benzel; numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents, Clarence, and Amelia; daughter, Heidi Maxwell; son Donald Benzel; brother, Robert Hoesly; niece, Barbara Lieb. There will be a funeral service on Monday, June 5, 2023, at First Presbyterian Church in Belvidere, IL beginning at 11:00 A.M. There will be a visitation from 9:00 A.M. until the time of service. Interment will be private. Memorials can be made to Sister Cities of Belvidere in Lorene’s name.