James R. Hedlund, Sr.

James ("Jim") R. Hedlund Sr., 86, passed away on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, in Lady Lake, Florida. He was born June 29, 1938, in Rockford, Illinois to Milton and Maybelle (Pearson) Hedlund. Jim married the love of his life, Madeline "Lynn" C. Frank, on November 13, 1965, in McHenry, Illinois, and they were married for over 50 years before her passing in 2016.

Jim lived a rich life of adventures and dedication to his family. He loved traveling with Lynn and they took many cruise vacations together. If you were ever on a long car trip with him, you never knew where he would take you. You could be eating lobster at a restaurant in upstate Maine one day and visiting the Statue of Liberty the next. His grandchildren were with him on some of these exciting trips and they all have fond memories of their grandpa's love for them and his sense of adventure. Jim cherished his time with family and they were the center of his world. He had a special love for his grandchildren and great-grandchildren who brought joy and pride into his life.

Throughout Jim's career, he held many jobs that highlighted his versatile skills and adventurous spirit. After graduation from high school, he drove a soda and beer delivery truck. With Lynn by his side, they owned Uncle Sam's Tavern and later started a tour and charter service. His last job was with Sundstrand. After many fulfilling years of work, Jim and Lynn retired to Florida where his days were filled with swimming at the pool, visiting friends, and relaxing.

Jim's hobbies reflected his love for family and friends. He found great joy in researching genealogy, loved fishing, and had a special love for ice cream. You could find him watching a NASCAR race on TV and then calling his sons or grandsons to talk about the results. Jim had many friends in the NASCAR circle. His claim to fame was being an EMT at the 1979 Daytona 500 where he was involved in the middle of a fight between Donnie Allison, Bobby Allison, and Cale Yarborough. Jim always commented that Cale Yarborough picked him up and threw him to the side like a sack of potatoes. A story which Jim gladly liked to tell.

He was a proud member of the "Jims Club" - friends who frequently met for dinner, all with the first name of Jim. He was also a proud member of the Jaycees and had many lifelong friends.

Jim is survived by his children, James R. Hedlund Jr., Jeff (Erin) Hedlund, Mike (Linda) Hedlund, and Todd (Julie) Hedlund. His cherished grandchildren include Kathy (Harley) Pier, Stephen (Kayla) Hedlund, Marc Hedlund, Melissa Howen (Nick Souvestke), Allison Howen, and Emilee (Ivan) Gomez. Jim also had the pleasure of being a great-grandfather to Addisyn, Kenly, Cason, Madilynn, Hailey, Jax, and Ivy. He is survived by his sister Sue (Hank) Anderson and numerous brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, and special friends.

Jim is preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife, Lynn, and his granddaughter, Carol Ann Hedlund. Jim's legacy lives on in the hearts of his family and friends, who will fondly remember his warmth, love, and the lasting impact he made on their lives.

Visitation will be held on Friday, June 27, 2025, from 2:00 p.m. until the time of the memorial service at 4:00 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Rd. A private burial will be at a later date.