James G. DeBaere, 79, of Loves Park passed away Thursday, October 4, 2018 at OSF St. Anthony Hospital. James was born in Rockford on September 6, 1939, the son of Desire and Maria L. (Vandendriessche) DeBaere. He married Elizabeth Murphy on July 3, 1969. James was a veteran of the Air Force, former member of St. Edwards Catholic Church, current member of St. Bridget Catholic Church. James was a member of Knights of Columbus, VFW, SM &SF, BAC, Harmony and the Eagles Clubs. James bowled at Don Carter Lanes for over 40 years and had a 299 game, he was an avid Chicago Bears and Cubs fan. He loved woodworking, especially building bird houses, loved going to the casino, fishing and was always up for a good joke.
James is survived by his wife Elizabeth; children: Mark (Anne), Doreen (Jim), Denise and Dawn; grandchildren Tim, Crystal, Mark, Troy and Justin; great-grandchildren Paden, Owen, Evie and Bernard; sister Josephine (Mario) Agostini and brother John (Martha) DeBaere.
James was preceded in death by his parents, 4 brothers and 2 sisters.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Northern Illinois Blood Bank or St. Bridget Catholic Church.
Visitation for James will be Sunday, October 7, 2018 from 4:00 pm until 6:00 pm at Sunset Funeral Home 8800 N. Alpine Road in Machesney Park. Mass of Christian Burial for James will be 10:00 am Monday, October 8, 2018 at St. Bridget Catholic Church 600 Clifford Ave. in Loves Park with a visitation at the church from 9:30 am until Mass. Entombment with Military Honors will be at Sunset Memorial Gardens. Condolences may be sent to www.sunsetfhmemgardens.com
