James M. Newell Sr.

James “Jim” M. Newell Sr., 78, of Rockford, passed away at home on Monday, September 30, 2024.

Jim was born in Rockford, Illinois on March 14, 1946, the son of Edward and Agnes (Kurkerewicz) Newell. He graduated from Auburn High School. Jim worked for Bishop’s Printing of Rockford for many years until starting his own successful business, Jim’s Home Repair. He proudly ran the family business until retirement and later worked at the Cherry Valley Library. Jim married Patricia A. Schweitzer on July 14, 1973, in Waterman, Illinois. He was a member of Cherry Valley United Methodist Church where he attended services with his family.

Jim enjoyed spending his time playing and watching golf, fishing, and cheering on the Chicago Bears. Most of all, he cherished the times spent with family, friends, and his special family dogs, Bear and Critter. Jim will be dearly missed.

Jim is survived by his wife, Pat Newell; sons, James Newell Jr. of Palm Bay, FL and David (Linda) Newell of Rockford; grandchildren, Christopher (Lisa), Carrie, Kenny, Ashley and Blake; great-grandchildren, Jasin, Kashton, Kailey, Aubree, Brayden, Brynlee and Brycen; brother, John (Deanne) Newell; sister-in-law, Jill Newell and numerous nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents and siblings, Edward Newell, Susan (Gary) Harlan and Cynthia (Dean) Harlan.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Jim’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Northern Illinois Hospice or a charity of your choice.

A memorial service will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 12, 2024, at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Rd. Rockford, IL 61108. Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. until time of the service.

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