James A. Barbagallo

James A. Barbagallo, 65, lifelong Rockford resident, passed away Friday morning, July 11, 2014 in Presence St. Anne Center. He was born November 22, 1948, in Chicago, son of Anthony and Irene Cazzanigga Barbagallo. He was a graduate of Guilford High School and received his bachelor's degree from Parsons College. Married Karen Davis in Rockford on October 4, 1991. Most people may have known Jim from his real estate sales. For decades he has been one of the most successful Realtors in Rockford. Year after year he received awards for top sales. He has also been very active in the Rockford Area Association of Realtors and was highly regarded by his peers. He was presently serving his second term as their President.
Jim was also a full-time sales executive for Joseph Behr & Sons where he had been equally successful for more than 40 years!
All the while, Jim was a key player in more than a dozen civic organizations who were fortunate enough to have him on their boards.
In his spare time, which he seemed somehow always to find, he was a master potter who exhibited his pottery with his son, Shawn, at art shows throughout the Midwest.
What really set Jim apart was that with all the things he was doing at any one time he was always there for his many friends. Whether it was moving, helping with one of their projects, raising money for one of their causes or just being there in their time of need, Jim dropped everything to help.
Survived by his wife Karen, son; Shawn (Heather) Barbagallo, daughter; Amy Barbagallo. step-sons; Steve Coates, Jay (Jaime) Patch and many special cousins. Preceded in death by his parents, aunts, uncles and cousins. A special thank you to all the doctors and nurses at OSF St. Anthony Medical Center, Presence St. Anne Center and OSF Hospice.
At the family's request all funeral services are private. A celebration of Jim's life will be held on Tuesday, July 22, 2014 at Giovanni's Restaurant, 610 N. Bell School Road from 5-7 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to OSF St. Anthony Hospice. Express condolences and share mem