ROCHELLE — Conner Heath Ewald, age 8, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, May 19, 2023.  He was born on December 17, 2014 in DeKalb, IL, the son of Tyler and Abbey (Hyde) Ewald. Conner was finishing up second grade at Central School.  He loved his family, friends, and three dogs: Sophia, Gizmo, and Grimlee.  Conner was active in Cub Scouts, soccer, bowling and snowmobiling.  He could relate and have a meaningful conversation with people of all ages.  He loved spending time near water, whether that was camping and exploring rivers, especially at the River Road Campground or the many adventures he and his family had while visiting various lakes.  Conner’s beautiful soul will be dearly missed.  

He is preceded in death by his “Grandpa Brad” Young; great grandmother, Vickie Grimley; and great grandfather, Gary Manning.

Conner is survived by his mom and dad, Abbey and Tyler Ewald of Rochelle; grandparents: Christine Ewald of Oregon, IL,  Barrett Manning of Monroe Center, IL, and Daniel (Debra) Hyde of Lindenwood, IL; step grandfather, Erick Heinzman; great grandparents: Barbara Manning, Robert (Marie) Ewald, and Connie Manning all of Rochelle; aunts and uncles: Nathanial (Brittany) Hyde, Lauren Hyde, Eric Young, Noah Young, and Logan Heinzman, Brandon (Sarah) Manning, Brittni (Kirk) Gorsuch and Grace Manning; cousins: Evan Hyde and Grayson Young; and many great aunts, uncles and cousins.

Funeral service will be on Friday, May 26, 2023 at 10:00 A.M., at the First Presbyterian Church, 1100 Calvin Road, Rochelle with Pastor Doug Forsberg officiating.  Visitation will be from 4 - 7 P.M., Thursday, May 25, 2023 at the Unger Horner Funeral Home, 400 N 6th St., Rochelle.  In lieu of flowers, a memorial is established, which will be used towards a memorial bench near a river or lake in Conner’s name. Visit www.ungerhorner.com to sign the online guest book.