Deaths

Death notices for the far Stateline: Nov. 3, 2025

We remember those who are no longer with us in Rockton, Roscoe, and South Beloit.

Michael McGinnis

Nov 3, 2025 — 2 min read

Jim Benkovich, Agnes Guzzardo, Mark Lewis, Muriel Zegunis, Jill Lamb, Mary Raymer

With sadness, we announce the following deaths for Rockton, Roscoe, and South Beloit in recent weeks:

Oct. 18, 2025:
Mark L. Lewis, 64, Argyle
At age 18, he ran for Rockford School Board. He worked for several Midas locations before purchasing his own. He served on the board of the Salvation Army and the Rock River Valley Pantry, and each year spent months planning Kiwanis Brat Days.

Oct. 25, 2025:
Mary A. Raymer, 85, Roscoe
An active member of the Hope Evangelical Free Church in Roscoe, she was a part of their White Cross group and the ALWALS group which hosted senior luncheons. She enjoyed quilting projects, diamond art, and ceramics. She retired from Microswitch/Honeywell after a 30 year career.

Oct. 27, 2025:
Jill T. Lamb, 60, Beloit
A 1983 graduate of Hononegah High School, she enjoyed being outdoors, biking and playing mini golf.

James Benkovich, 80, Rockton
He was president of the Hononegah school board, Scoutmaster of Boy Scout Troop 620, and was elected twice as Roscoe Township Supervisor. He went from the machine shop floor to senior vice president of sales, then ran his own advertising and marketing agency for more than 40 years.

Oct. 29, 2025:
Muriel L. Zegunis, 88, Roscoe
An Air Force veteran, she became a porcelain china painter. She loved working at the River Bluff Nursing Home gardens and in her home garden.

Oct. 30, 2025:
Agnes J. Guzzardo, 86, Roscoe
Whether hosting clothing drives, mission trips, teaching children, serving at church, or giving massages, she led by example and inspired others to grow in their faith. Her favorite tradition was an annual vacation to Lake of the Ozarks with the extended family.