James R. Buelow

James "Beaze" Buelow Loving husband, father, brother and best friend James Robert Buelow, 51, of Rockford, peacefully passed away on Friday, May 16, 2008 at OSF St. Anthony Medical Center surrounded by his family. Born October 2, 1956 the son of Herbert and Carol (Horsley) Buelow in Rockford, Ill. He graduated from East High School in 1974. Jim married Julia Holtfreter on October 19, 2002. Not only did he get married to his best friend that day, he became an incredible step-dad to Domenic and Ryeley. He felt in his heart that they were truly his own children. In 2003, Isabella Rose Buelow was born and Jim couldnt have been more proud or in love. She was "the apple of his eye." Beaze was employed by the Illinois Tollway for 28 years and retired on October 31, 2007. He was a member of Teamsters Union Local No.726 and a die hard Cubs fan and Minnesota Vikings fan. Beaze had many passions, basketball, bocce, and helping others only being a few. If there ever was a person or organization in need, Beaze was there to help in any way. That is why he faithfully donated blood for most of his adult life. He realized how important this selfless gesture was when our daughter was in the NICU at Rockford Memorial Hospital. He witnessed how his blood saved many of the lives of those premature babies. Those that knew him would say that he was the guy who "would give you the shirt off his back, even if it was the only one he had." Survivors include his wife, Julia; his daughter, Isabella Rose; step-children, Domenic and Ryeley Wilson; sisters, Marlys Buelow (Lorrie Metcalf) and Denise (Don) Burton; brothers, Steven (Janice) and Michael (Karen) Buelow; several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins. Jim had many wonderful, caring friends over the years, especially Teddy, Jim L. and Ken G., and a very special god mother, Gloria Lind. Jim touched many of the lives of the people around him. What he gave of himself, he gained in return. One such relationship was with Domenic and his buddies, especially Ryan T. I am sure the walls in our garage will miss all of those conversations. He will be missed greatly by everyone, especially by his loyal dog, Potter, who watched over him while he was ill. Jim was predeceased by his parents and brother, Herbert, Jr. A Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, May 22 at 11 a.m. at St. James Catholic Church with Rev. David Engbarth (uncle of Julia) officiating. Visitation will be Wednesday, May 21 from 4 to 8 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral home, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Rd., and on Thursday from 10:15 am until time of service at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to his family. Interment will be in Greenwood Cemetery, Galena, Ill. "Jim, although my heart is broken right now and the pain is unbearable, I know that I will be with you again someday. I miss you and I love you, YLG. P.s. we are all curious, who won that basketball game Friday night, you or Herbie?"