James "Jim" Latino

James “Jim” Latino, 77, of Rockford, passed away on March 9, 2017. Jim was born September 10, 1939 to James and Jeanette Latino. He graduated from St. Thomas High School, Class of 1958. He married Virginia Rotello on December 17, 1966. Jim spent over 30 years in the wholesale fuel and lubricant industry, starting with Smith/Shafer Oil Company and later owned Quality Petroleum Company with his good friend Bill Sjostrom. The company was later sold to Kelley Williamson where he spent 18 years, retiring as General Manager of Wholesale Fuels and Lubricant Sales. Jim served on the City of Rockford Police and Fire Commission and the Winnebago County Sheriffs Merit Commission. He also was a long time member of the American Lombardi Club where he enjoyed spending time with his friends. Jim’s family wishes to thank Jim’s faithful friend, Frank Romero, who everyday was at Jim’s bedside and recited a decade of the rosary. We are forever grateful to Frank.
Survivors include, wife Virginia, sons, John Latino and Paul (Natalie) Latino, grandchildren, Zachary, Andrew and Nicholas Latino. Sister, Linda Whalen of Middleton, Wisconsin, nephews, Mark Whalen and Tom Whalen and his brother-in-law, Vito Rotello of Rockford.
Visitation will be from 9:30 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. on Saturday, March 18, 2017 at Holy Family Catholic Church with a memorial mass to follow at 11:00 a.m. Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Mulford Chapel, assisted the family. To express online condolences, please visit: www.fitzgeraldfh.com.