Jim J. Toms

James J. “Jim” Toms, 81, of Rockford, died on Tuesday, February 24, 2015, in his home. He was born in Kaukauna, WI, on February 17, 1934; son of Jewel and Laura Toms. Jim married his wife Joyce on June 9, 1961, in Wausau, WI. He served his country in the U.S. Navy, as a Seabee; serving in both Bermuda and Malta. Jim received his Bachelors Degree, from the University of Wisconsin-Stout; and worked at Pacific Scientific in marketing, retiring in January of 1998. Jim was a talented woodworker to say the least; especially in wood turning, as he was a member of the Northern Illinois Woodturners. Jim also enjoyed playing his guitar and ukulele; he knew all the real oldies. Jim is survived by his wife Joyce and his son, Joel. He is predeceased by his son, Glen; his parents; and his sister and brother-in-law, Carol and Martin Witt. A memorial service will be 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, February 28, 2015, at Fitzgerald Funeral Home and Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Rd., Rockford, IL, 61108. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until time of service at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to Northern Illinois Hospice and Grief Center, 4215 Newburg Rd., Rockford, IL, 61108. Funeral arrangements are being cared for by Fitzgerald Funeral Home and Crematory, Mulford Chapel.