James "Danny" Martin

James “Danny” Martin, 81, of Rockford, passed away peacefully on July 31, 2024. Born June 19, 1943, Danny was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle and cherished friend.

Danny's life was a testament to his unwavering commitment to family, tradition, and the values he held dear. He was a passionate golfer and over the years he could often be found on the course, where he welcomed the challenges and friendships made along the way. His love for the game was matched only by his love for his family, whom he deeply cherished and supported throughout his life. Danny dedicated himself to being the best role model for his children and grandchildren in hopes of ensuring their success and happiness. He was a pillar of strength and guidance, always leading by example with integrity, hard work, generosity, and kindness. 

He will be missed by those who loved him most, his wife of almost 39 years, Brenda; sons James “Dan” Jr. (Rhonda), Chris (Melissa), David (Holly), and Matthew Martin; his grandchildren Eric, Shawn (Chelsea), Emilee, Cassie (Ryan) Loos, Kaitlyn, Miranda (Kory) LeVoy, Julia (Cory) Kuehne, Jori (Brice) Daniels, and Matthew Jr; 15 beloved great grandkids with two soon to be born; his siblings Leo (Sharon), Betty Thurow, Gerald (Jodi), and Sandra Constant; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins; brothers in law Brian Hardin, John (Natasha) Hardin, Joseph (Kellie) Hardin and their families. He is predeceased by his parents Fred and Laura; in-laws William and Arlene Hardin; his siblings William, Richard, Edward, Mary Jane, Eldon, and Larry as well as siblings in-law William Hardin and Mary Beth Hardin. 

A visitation will take place Wednesday, August 7th, 2024, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Road, Rockford, Illinois 61108 with a rosary to follow at 8:00 p.m. Visitation will continue the following day, Thursday, August 8th, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of Funeral Mass, 11:00 a.m. at St. Rita Catholic Church, 6254 Valley Knoll Dr, Rockford, IL 61109. Burial at Sunset Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family to be distributed amongst organizations close to Danny’s heart. To send online condolences or share memories, please visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com