Rockford River Days Grand Parade

If you have attended Rockford River Days in the past, you’ve probably walked past Rick & Sally Martinson many times. A couple that has lived in Rockford for more than 37 years, they have raised a family and planted themselves firmly in the Rockford community. He didn’t earn the nickname “Rockford Rick” without good reason!

Rick has been a member of the Rockford Lions, Our Fathers Lutheran Church, Strive, the Rockford City Council, and helped set-up power and electrical for Rockford River Days for many years. The music, vendors, and entire festival could not have gone on without him and his expertise. Rick worked hard to make the River Days festival better each and every year, while also volunteering and working in the community throughout the rest of the year.

Sally has volunteered with Rockford Area Schools (especially the Elementary school) in countless ways over the years, including the Preschool Board, being a founding member of PIE (Partners in Education), helping pass referendums, and being a paraprofessional. She also was on committees at OFLC, volunteered as a Girl Scout & Cub Scout Leader, and was on the River Days Committee. Her biggest accomplishment might be juggling hers and her husbands busy schedule!

There is so much more that could be written about Rick & Sally, as they have been a pillar of the Rockford Community for decades, and we are honored to have them as the 2024 River Days Grand Marshals!