James "Jim" V. Toole

James “Jim” V. Toole, 76, of Rockford, passed away peacefully, surrounded by loving family on Thursday, November 3, 2022.

Jim was born in Indianapolis, IN on April 15, 1946, son of Harold “Jack” Toole and Joanne Jubell. He graduated from Elston High School in Michigan City, Indiana, Class of 1964. Jim began his working career with Sullair, LLC in Michigan City in 1973. He married Carla J. Birlson on January 18, 1975, in Nashville, Indiana. He later attended Cardinal Stritch University for 2 years. Jim moved with his family to Rockford, IL in 1989 to work for Sundstrand Corp. as corporate logistics services manager until retiring in 2019. He was a proud member of the Michiana Traffic Club in South Bend, IN and volunteered his time with the Red Cross in Rockford. Jim loved everything about music including concerts, just listening and even collecting it. He also enjoyed taking his beloved dog, Olive for many walks. Most of all, Jim cherished spending time with his family, especially his dear grandkids. He loved taking them fishing and being the best Papa there was. Jim had a great passion for making sure his family was always taken care of. He will be dearly missed.

Those left to honor Jim’s memory include his wife, Carla Toole; son, Kevin (Barbara) Toole of Vincennes, IN and daughter, Sarah Toole (Scott Renslow) of Rockford; grandchildren, Patrick and Graham Toole, Kayla (Alex) Tovar and Jorien Williams; siblings, Nancy (Dave) Flower, Michael Tanber and Brian Toole; numerous nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents and sister, Kathy Deneau.

The family would like to give a special thank you to the staff of Northern Illinois Hospice Care.

A Gathering of Family and Friends will be held on Saturday, November 12, 2022, from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Rd. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Jim’s name to Northern Illinois Hospice Care.

Share online memories and condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com