James L. Studer

God’s army of angels carried James L. Studer, 70, of Rockford to his heavenly home June 18, 2015, due to a lengthy illness resulting from exposure of Agent Orange while serving in the Vietnam War. He was born February 18, 1945 in Sioux City, Iowa, to Lloyd and Elizabeth Studer. While serving in the army he was sent overseas to Vietnam, returning home on May 17, 1967. Although glad to be back in the states again, thoughts of the turmoil of war, along with his comrades left behind were never far from his mind. He had a huge heart for homeless Veterans. Jim was a member of, participated in, and volunteered for several Veterans organizations including Vietnam Veterans of America, Vietnow of Rockford, and the American Legion. Jim was married over 47 years to his only true love, Betty Perdue. Their love and commitment to each other was absolutely extraordinary. Jim was an avid sports fan, he helped coach his children’s baseball teams and loved his Washington Redskins, Chicago Blackhawks, and especially, along with many other family members, the Chicago Cubs. Go Cubbies!

He is survived by his wife Betty, children, Timothy (Patricia) Studer of Rockford, IL, Tamara (Christopher) Griffin of Middlebury, IN and Tina Studer of Rockford, IL; grandchildren, Amanda Griffin, Brannon (Rebecca) Griffin, Katrina (Joseph) Neal, Mariah Studer, Cameron Studer, Marlaina Studer, Kaylee Naugle; and newest joy, great grandson, Hezekiah Griffin; sister, Kathy (Richard) Schulz; brother in law, Vernon (Mary) Perdue; and several nieces and nephews.

Predeceased by his parents; brother, Michael Studer, two infant sisters, father and mother in law John and Mona Perdue; and brother in law, David Wilson. The family wishes to thank the Northern Illinois Hospice Team, Rockford VA Clinic, UW Madison Hospital and the Madison VA Hospital & Clinic for the outstanding care they provided.

Services will be held Thursday, June 25th, at Riverside Assembly of God Church, 4242 West Riverside Boulevard, Rockford, IL. Visitation from 9-11am, with funeral beginning at 11am. Pastor James Moore officiating. Burial at Willwood Burial Park. Memorials can be made to the family.