James Richard Dahlgren

James “Jim” R. Dahlgren, 80, passed away on June 5, 2024. Born on February 22, 1944, son to Evar and Vera (Olson) Dahlgren. Jim would grow up to be a man of extraordinary courage and unwavering determination. He graduated from East High School in 1963 and immediately joined the U.S. Army serving from 1964 through 1966 during Vietnam. Once returning home he worked a few jobs in Rockford before finding the perfect fit for his brave and fearless demeanor- firefighting. Jim worked for 36 years for the Rockford Fire department, earning the title Captain for over half of his career, and retired in 2004. During that time, he never stopped moving. Co-founding the Rockford Dive Team and becoming a part of their esteemed group of divers, being the first male Girl Scout Leader in Rockford for his daughter, Jim progressed through his life making powerful but subtle impacts along the way. In his leisure time, Jim indulged in various hobbies that spoke to his adventurous spirit. From fishing, to pedal biking, cross country running and skiing, wind surfing, canoeing, all the way to bird watching; once he decided he was interested in something, Jim became as steadfast as Paul Bunyan himself. Beyond his illustrious accomplishments, Jim was a proud father and grandfather through and through. He imparted them with values of strength and love whenever he could and will be greatly missed by all that knew and loved him back.

He is survived by his children Clareisa (John) Merwin, Inga (John) Joiner and Evar Dahlgren; his grandchildren Hannah (James) Johnson, Richard Hauser, Logan, Macy, Maddy, Sophia, Stormi Joiner, and Kaylie Dahlgren; great granddaughter Hollis Johnson; his significant other and best friend, Beverly Aweve; his brother Tom (Mary) and their son Bob; as well a special mention to his cousin, Carol Carpenter. He is predeceased by his parents Evar and Vera.

Visitation will take place on Thursday, June 27, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of Memorial Service, 12:00 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 3910 N. Rockton Avenue, Rockford, Illinois 61103. Burial to follow at Arlington Memorial Park. Please consider memorials to the family to be established at a later date. To send online condolences or share memories, please visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com