James B. Bender

James B. “Jim” Bender, 82, Loves Park, passed away at home on Wednesday, November 19, 2014, surrounded by his beloved family. Jim was born August 11, 1932, in Loves Park, the son of Victor and Ruby Bender. He was a decorated Marine and a veteran of the Korean Conflict including the Chosin Reservoir battle. Jim started his own home construction business in 1959, and built many beautiful custom homes in the Rockford area. He is a former president and lifetime member of the Rockford Area Homebuilders Association and President of the Homebuilders Association of Illinois. A true entrepreneur, Jim was one of the pioneers of mini warehouse storage facilities in the region. He was a member and past president of the YMCA Retired Men’s Club. A recorded baritone, Jim was the first male vocalist to be invited to membership at the Mendelssohn Club. He and his wife performed as a duo at many retirement and nursing homes, churches and Veterans Hospitals and he often performed for the Harlem High School Alumni gatherings. Jim often sang at family weddings and, with his wife, recorded a CD of his favorite tunes.
Survived by his wife of 62 years, the former Sylvia Fink; his daughters, Ellen (Gary) Oehlberg, Lisa (James) Peterson, and Claire (Jon) Brant; his grandchildren, Jennifer (Jeremy) Forrester, Taylor (Vanna) Forrestal and Michael (Katie) Oehlberg, as well as four great-grandchildren, Max Forrester, Mia Forrester, Jacob Oehlberg and Ellie Forrestal; several nieces and nephews. Jim had many friends and was loved and respected by all. He was predeceased by his parents and two brothers. Per Jim’s wishes, his services will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Noah’s Ark, 125 N. Madison St., Rockford, 61107. Fitzgerald Funeral Home and Crematory assisted the family. Share online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.