James Joseph Langan

Dr. James Joseph Langan, 61, passed away on Thursday, December 5, 2013 after a long illness. He was born to Joseph and Ann Langan on September 15, 1952 in Newark, New Jersey. He graduated from Rutgers University summa cum laude. In 1974, he married his high school sweetheart, Katharine before moving to Chicago for medical school and residency at the University of Chicago. They moved to Rockford in 1982 when he joined Camelot Radiology. He spent his career practicing at OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center and helped to create the OSF Women's center.

God created an amazingly brilliant, generous, and dedicated man. He was a methodical, quiet, shy, reserved man with the kindest, most gentle soul. He was liked by everyone and respected by his patients. He was devoted to his family, his patients, and his career.

He excelled at all that he undertook including, milling his own screws for his telescope mounts, metal and woodworking. He had patents for different medical equipment made in his basement to help improve radiology and patient care. He was also passionate about telescopic photography, scuba diving, snow skiing, genealogy, and running. In 1991, he ran the Chicago marathon. He also adored his Irish wolfhound dogs and delighted in giving them treats.

He always looked forward to annual family vacations. His favorite place to relax was on the beach of North Carolina. He enjoyed spending time with his family while beach bumming, drinking cold beverages, and playing horseshoes. He appreciated every moment spent with his beautiful family.

He is survived by his wife, Kathy of 39 years, children: Stacia, Jeffrey, John, and Michael; grandchildren James and Hazel; two brothers, Joseph (Lori) of Rockford and Chris (Silvia) Langan of Des Plaines; one sister, Susan (Ron) Crull of South Carolina, sister in law, Sharon Langan and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Ann Langan and brother, Don Langan.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, December 8 at Fitzgerald Funeral Home Riverside Chapel at 3910 North Rockton Ave., Rockford, IL 61103 from 2:00-4:00pm. A memorial service will be held immediately after the visitation at 4:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Rockford Rescue Mission (715 W State St Rockford, IL 61102). Memorials can be made to OSF St. Anthony Women's Center (5666 E. State St. Rockford, IL 61108) or Anam Care Assisted Living Facility (8104 Sayer Road Rockford, IL 61108)

Stacia, Jeffrey, John, and Michael would like to thank their mother, Kathy, for her continued faith, devoted love, and selfless care of their Dad over the past several years. Dad always used to say, "well…no one is perfect". He was right, but she is as close as it gets. It takes a special person to take care of a special person. We love you.