James A. Arensdorf

Rockford-James A. Arensdorf, 43, died Thursday, Feb. 26, 2009 at OSF St. Anthony Medical Center after a year of a courageous and painful battle with cancer. Born Aug. 26, 1965 in Cherry Point, NC the son of Leonard Arensdorf and Donna (Laughlin) Arensdorf. Attended Jefferson High School and worked for Chrysler Corp. as an assembler. Jimmy was also a member of the Local UAW 1268 and The Eagles Club a diehard Chicago Cubs and Bears fan, enjoyed NASCAR, could make a great jambalaya and he loved to play cards with friends and family. He was a single father to his daughter and son and was easily agitated if they did something wrong. Jimmy loved his family with all his heart and his infectious smile would always let you know his love for you as a father, brother, son or friend. He was the first to lend a helping hand and was not shy to ask you if he needed help in return. Survivors include his children, Kristen and Justen Arensdorf; his Father and Mother; brother, Steve (Angie sisters, Jody (Rob) Smith and Kim (John) Morales; nephews, Andrew and Jeremy Breitbach and John Morales; nieces, Marissa and Sidney Morales and Madeline Smith; grandmother, Joan Arensdorf; numerous aunts and uncles and his dear friend, Regina who kept coming to see him even though he tried pushing her away and many others.  Preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Raymond and Margaret Loughlin; paternal grandfather, Leo Arensdorf; uncles, Sam and James Arensdorf and Delbert Laughlin and niece, Lucy Ann Smith. We will miss him terribly, but want to believe he is at peace, without pain.   Funeral Mass Tuesday, March 3, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Edward Catholic Church. Visitation Monday, March 2, 2009 from 5-7 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home, Mulford chapel 1860 S. Mulford Rd., the family would like everyone to feel free and wear Cubs or Bears apparel in Jimmys memory. A Rosary Service will be recited at 7 p.m.   Visitation continues on Tuesday in church from 9-9:45. Interment in Arlington Memorial Park.