James J. O'Rourke

For nearly 6 years, 3 times a week, I worked out in the gym with Jim O'Rourke. I miss him. His friends at the Fitness Co. buzzed with the sad news of his illness and final passing. Some visited and shared the news, many felt his loss. He and I talked politics, "I'm BUShhhhhed!", he often greeted me. He was excited about our political future, vexed by our TV use of language, alive and fully connected. I can still see him standing tall. His life made a difference to the very end. I am...

To the James J. O'Rourke Family, Several weeks before Jim became ill we spoke on the telephone; he asked me how long we had been friends? I responded, well over fifty years, and asked him why? Jim told me he had been looking through some of his old family photos, and came upon a picture of his grandfather and a friend. On the back of the photo was inscribed " my friend tried and true". That too, is my recollection of my friend Jim. No other will fill the void.

To the O"Rourke Family - Our condolences to all of you on the loss of your brother, Uncle, and friend. We will coninnue to keep you all in our prayers. Most sincerely, Bill and Marian Middendorf, Bethany Beach, De.

To the O'Rourke Family
I will always have a special place in my heart for Jim. He was family. He always kept me on my toes,always quizzing me on many different subjects. I always looked up to him. Talk about a role model, we were truly blessed to have him as a friend. He was a kid at heart,which is why all of my brothers and sister adored him, you couldn't help but to do so. He is the main reason I'm not a Cubs fan, he was a White Sox fan and as he taught me from the age of 2, you can't...

In memory of James, from an old co-worker at the Broward MPO.

James Joseph O’Rourke or “Jimmy Joe” as I affectionately called him was my Godfather. In a million men, I don’t think there ever was a better example of what it means to be a Godfather. So lucky I’ve been all these years to call Jim my Godfather.

Jim lived his life devoted to God and family, education and work, and of course baseball. It’s no coincidence that he left us during Lent and on 3-9-09 for his love of God and baseball will forever be my strongest memories of Jim.

Ed,
I'll always have many wonderful memories of Jim spending time with our family. As kids we always looked forward to Jim's visits. He was such a joy to have around. There was always an abundance of spontaneous laughter when Jim was in the house! I'm very proud to have been his God son. I send my condolences to you, Jim's family and friends.

Dear O'Rourke Family,
We are very sorry for your loss. Jimmy and our Dad were life long friends and fellow ND alums. May he rest in peace.
The family of Mark A. Cronin, Jr.

Ed and family, My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.