ROCKFORD – DuWayne "Dewey" Richard Everts, 77, of Rockford, IL, passed away Monday, September 25, 2023, at OSF St. Anthony Medical Center. Dewey was born October 18, 1945, in German Valley, IL., the son of John Henry and Elizabeth (Buntjer) Everts. Dewey married Cheryl Smith on July 17, 1966, in Forreston, IL and they were divorced on January 10, 1995. Dewey never remarried. He had a varied work history including Kelly Springfield Tire Company, Furst Staffing, Ace of Diamonds, Arachnid/TBI Games, then back to Furst Staffing where he retired. He served in the Army Reserves. Dewey was known by many titles including DuWayne, Dewey, Dad, Papa Dew, Friend, Neighbor, Helper, Coworker, Husband. He found purpose through work, family, and helping others. He had a wonderful sense of humor and a great smile and laugh. Dewey loved sports, especially the Chicago Cubs and Bears. He played for the USSSA (United States Slow Pitch Softball Association) for many years. We are so proud of the fact that he was responsible for bringing softball back to Illinois and he was inducted into the Hall of Fame for his efforts in 2001. Dewey ran a softball league at the Ace of Diamonds for many years and was known and loved by everyone. He was also well known in the arena of electronic darts. He was very proud of his work ethic and the instilling that in his daughters. Dewey was well known around Rockford, IL but he grew up in German Valley and will be laid to rest in the Silver Creek Cemetery alongside his family.

Dewey is survived by his three daughters, Tonia Statum (married to Robert Statum) of Rockton IL, Angela Miller (married to Kenneth Miller) of Bessemer City NC, and Tabatha Noel (married to Jason Noel) of Gastonia NC; five grandchildren, Nathan Statum (married to Veronica Statum) of Philadelphia PA, Sarah Bougher (married to Ben Bougher) of South Beloit IL, Tyler Wardle (married to Chelsea Wardle) of Monroe NC, Kaleb Wardle (not married) of Gastonia NC, and Brock Miller (married to Hannah Grace Miller) of Spartanburg SC; and three great-grandsons, Jack Dunn, Gryphon Bougher, and Barrett Bougher. Our beloved Papa Dew is already deeply missed.

Dewey was preceded in death by his brother Donald Everts, and sister Delores "Lorsi" Bardell.

Dewey was incredibly proud of his girls, boasting to anyone who would listen that the girls are all members of the healthcare community. The girls have always been and continue to be known as "Dewey's daughters" and they are very proud of that fact.

Funeral services will be 2:00 pm Saturday, October 7, 2023, at Silver Creek Reformed Church in German Valley, IL. Family visitation from 11:00 am until 12:00 pm. Public visitation from 12:00 pm until 2:00 pm. Dewey wishes to be cremated, so burial services will be held later. Refreshments will be served immediately following the service.