James "Jim" L. Kelso

James L. “Jim” Kelso, 70, of Rockford, passed away at home, surrounded by his family, on December 23, 2021. He was born May 21, 1951, in Rockford, the son of Wayne and Betty (Timmons) Kelso. He graduated from Boylan High School, class of 1969. Jim married Suellyn Johnson, the love of his life, on May 4, 1974 at St. Edwards Catholic Church.
Jim worked for Estwing Manufacturing for 47 years, both in administration and quality control. He was an avid golfer and member of the Blackhawk Athletic Club. Jim was a strong, quiet, and funny individual who loved nothing more than being with his family and his boxer dogs, Piper and Quinby Mistletoe.
James is survived by his wife, Sue; children, Matt (Francois) Kelso, Brianne (Aaron) Leix, and Christina (Greg) Hockmuth; grandchildren, Kylee and Maxwell Kelso, Colton, Hayden and Hadley Leix, Nicholas and Wesley Hockmuth; special sister-in-law, Christine (Kenny) Benson; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. He is predeceased by his parents, sister Katherine Spencer, and special sister-in-law, Cheryl (Rich) Hinerichsen.
A Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, December 30, 2021, at 11:00 am, at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Road, Rockford, Illinois 61108. A public visitation will be held prior to the service from 9:00 to 11:00 am. Burial will be in Davis Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to the family. Please share memories and condolences online atwww.fitzgeraldfh.com