He was born on September 12, 1947 in Rockford to Michael and Marie
(Sciacca) Ambruoso. He was a dedicated and passionate person in all
that he did. He was deeply devoted to education, racing, sports, and
above all, his family. On August 12, 1967 he married the love of his life,
Carole Herbig. They shared 3 children together. In 1970, he graduated
from Western Illinois University with his Bachelor's Degree of Science, and went on to acquire his Masters of Education in 1996 at Saint Xavier University. Teaching was more than a career to James. His curriculum over 42 years of teaching included: technology, health, auto mechanics, woodworking, blueprint reading, and physical education just to name a few. James spearheaded the KMS News Team at Kennedy Middle School and advocated for the “No Bullying” program. When he wasn't teaching his students, he was coaching football, basketball, and baseball and was lovingly known as "Coach Bro". He also umpired softball games alongside his best friend Bob Nunez. James as well had a passion for car racing, and his legacy at the Rockford Speedway began when he was only 12 years old. Known as "Jimmy A", he was a recipient of the Hugh Deery Memorial Award, the Stan Burdick Memorial Award, acted as Rockford Speedway's Ambassador to NASCAR, until he was eventually inducted into Rockford Speedway's Walk of Fame. He was honored for his services as a track photographer, 5 years as the voice of Rockford Speedway, served as customer relations representative. His total employment equaling 59 years of dedication there. He recently retired from Speedway Auto Mall after several years due to his declining health. He was a ham radio operating with a handle of WD9FVF. He loved riding his John Deere tractor, working in his workshop, playing games on the computer, pulling the slots at the casino and spending time with his family. James was a loving husband, father, grandfather and brother. He will be missed by many.
He is survived by his wife; Carole Ambruoso; children, James Ambruoso Jr, Christina (Travis) James, and Tonya (John) Frye; grandchildren, Ashley (Colin) Grover, Adam Steward, Brianna Ambruoso, Trevor Frye, and Lilly Ambruoso; step-granddaughter Jewel James; brother, Carl (Steve Wells) Ambruoso; sister, Laura Callaway.
He is predeceased by his parents; Michael and Marie Ambruoso; sister, Lisa Gillespie; and granddaughter, Neala Frye.
A visitation for James is scheduled for March 5, from 5pm to 8 pm and funeral services on March 6 10am at Sunset Funeral Home. 8800 N. Alpine Rd., Machesney Park IL 61115. A live streamed funeral service will also be made available at approximately 10 am March 6 at https://www.facebook.com/SunsetFuneralHomeIL
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the family.
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