James “Jim” P. McHugh, 85, of Rockford, passed away on Thursday, July 6, 2023, in Itasca, IL. Jim was born on May 3, 1938, in Rockford to Jane (Diamond) and Patrick McHugh. After attending high school, Jim went to serve his country in the United States Marine Corps. After serving, Jim married Carol Ward in 1959 in Rockford, and their family grew with the addition of four boys. Jim worked as a quality control engineer in the Rockford area, including Barber Coleman and Sundstrand. Jim served as a volunteer firefighter and EMT for many years at North Park, becoming his favorite pastime. Having four boys naturally led him to becoming involved with Boy Scouts as well as Cub Scouts. After retiring Jim and Carol loved traveling through the United States, driving their motorhome around for nearly 10 years. He was an involved member at Grace Lutheran Church as well as GPS Faith Community Church in his later years. It was a priority for Carol and Jim together to serve their community volunteering through GPS. He also had the opportunity to participate in Vets Roll, which brought him so much joy and pride.
He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Carol; children, JR (Anne) McHugh, Gary (Anabelle) McHugh, Harold (Joy) McHugh, and Robert McHugh; 8 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; siblings, Patricia (Tom) Smith, Bill (Marilyn) McHugh, Irwin (Pat) McHugh, and John (Mark) McHugh; many nieces and nephews.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents Jane and Patrick McHugh; brother, Michael McHugh.
A memorial service for Jim will take place Saturday, July 15, 2023 at 2:00 PM, with a visitation prior at 1:00 PM. An inurnment with military honors will take place immediately following.
