Over the past 25 years, the Rockford Park District has had the privilege of working with “The Undertaker,” who has provided numerous recreational opportunities for children, youth, and their families. The nickname “The Undertaker” came about because as a humanitarian, he was known to undertake things no one else would. The “Undertaker” was a long-time volunteer with the Park District and through his efforts, supported a variety of area events. Through his generous efforts and sponsors, many events he was involved with were provided free of charge for the public.

After years of volunteer service, the “The Undertaker” recently announced that he was scaling back and retiring from some of the community projects he previously was associated with, including the City’s Largest Egg Hunt.

“The Rockford Park District and our community were very fortunate to have benefited from the many events that ‘The Undertaker’ was associated. His main purpose was to give back to the community and afford opportunities to those less fortunate. Over the years, the “The Undertaker” rallied support from numerous motorcycle organizations, local politicians, individual sponsors, and many area businesses. Thousands of children and families have benefited from his generosity,” said Park District Executive Director Tim Dimke.

Dimke said that one of the “The Undertaker’s” biggest accomplishments was his work in 2005 to rally the community to successfully achieve the official designation with the Guinness World Records Largest Egg Hunt.  The hunt drew over 1,500 youth with 292,686 eggs.  A sign denoting this accomplishment is posted near the entrance of Searls Park, where the event was held.

Despite “The Undertaker’s” retirement, families can still enjoy the events that he started. The Park District will be hosting the City’s Largest Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 11th at Anna Page Park for children ages 0-8. Check in begins at 10:00 a.m. and the hunt starts promptly at 11:00 a.m.  For additional information call 815-987-8800 or  visit rockfordparkdistrict.org. Those wishing to donate to the Egg Hunt and Lockwood Park’s family activities may do so by contacting the Rockford Park District Foundation, 401 S. Main St., Rockford, IL 61101, 815-987-1630. The Egg Hunt is one of the many events celebrating the Park District’s 100-year anniversary.