MELVIN ‘SKI’ J. WISNIEWSKI, 76 ROCKFORD – Melvin “Ski” J. Wisniewski, 76, of Rockford went home to be with the Lord at 4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 20, 2011, in his home, surrounded by his family. Born Feb. 23, 1934, in Rockford, the son of John and Nellie (Chorzempa) Wisniewski. He lived his entire life in Rockford. Married Blanche Artiaga on Oct. 13, 1956, in Tucson, Ariz. Graduated from St. Stanislaus School and St. Thomas Catholic High School. He honorably served the U.S. Air Force as a SSGT crew chief. He returned to Rockford and joined the Rockford Fire Department where he retired after 33 years of service as a lieutenant. Member of St. Stanislaus Church. His love, loyalty and dedication to his family, friends and co-workers was a thread woven throughout his life. He was a noble man. Survivors include beloved wife, Blanche; treasured children, Susan (John) Leombruni; son, David (Andrea) Wisniewski; cherished granddaughter, Eliana S. Wisniewski; dear sister, Joanne (Jack) Palmeri, all of Rockford; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Predeceased by his parents, and brother, Richard. The family would like to extend a special thank-you to Apostle Don Lyon and Heartland Hospice for the loving care they gave to Ski. Thank-you also to very special friends, Mary DeMarco, Cheryl Leonardson and Mark Palmeri.