James Jon Capone

James Jon "Jim" Capone, 70, Rockford, passed away Friday, February 14, 2014, at home surrounded by his loving family. He was born June 20, 1943, in Freeport, the son of Joseph R. and Kathryn (Becker) Capone. Jim attended Rockford schools, setting a record in backstroke at Washington Jr. High School. He later studied and performed with the Rockford Dance Company and the Joffrey Ballet. He became an accomplished hair stylist and protégé of Paul Mitchell, working in Chicago, London, New York, and Las Vegas. He was known to many in the industry as "Gypsy". He worked for many celebrities, including Prince. Jim was especially gregarious and compassionate about the arts and equal rights for everyone. He made many life-long friends during his travels but always came back to his family. The family would like to extend a special thank you to VNA Hospice for their kindness, caring and compassion.
Survived by his brothers, Joseph E. "Eddie" (Beverly) Capone of Rockford, Tom (Karen) Capone of Phoenix, AZ, Gary (Chris) Capone and Gennaro "Jeep" (Kathie ) Capone, both of Minneapolis, MN; his nieces and nephews, Steve, Andy, Tony, Marty, Chris, Susan, Paula, Beth Ann, Kelly, Kim, and Kathy; 20 great nieces and nephews; his aunts, Phyllis "Fannie" Sciacca and Naomi Capone; and many cousins. Predeceased by his parents and an infant brother, Ralph.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m., Monday, February 24, 2014, at the Cathedral of St. Peter, 1243 N. Church St. Rockford, 61103. Burial in Calvary Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will be from 2:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. Sunday, February 23, 2014, at Fitzgerald Funeral Home and Crematory, Riverside Chapel, 3910 N. Rockton Av. Rockford, 61103 with a Scripture Service at 4:30 p.m. Visitation will also be from 9:30 a.m. until 10:15 a.m. Monday at the church. Memorials may be made to the family. Share online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.