Jacob "Jack" P. Mandala

Jacob “Jack” P. Mandala, a beloved son, brother, devoted father and grandfather, passed away on November 2, 2025, in his hometown of Rockford, Illinois at the age of 63. He was born as the first twin on November 29, 1961, shortly followed by his brother Joey, sons to Salvatore “Sam” and Nina (Juliano) Mandala. During his formative years, the bond Jack and Joey shared was a testament to Jack’s character- caring, compassionate, and resilient. He felt a strong sense of obligation to help his brother, and that helped shape him into who he would grow up to be. He would go on to graduate from West High School and dedicated over three decades to the Rockford Highway Township Department where he loved cracking jokes and bossing his coworkers around before his retirement. Jack continued to carry deep roots grounded in family, and being a natural host and cook, he loved to bring family and friends together for yearly BBQ’s and parties. He also enjoyed other simple pleasures, whether that be fishing, boating, or the comradery found at gun shows. Jack was also a natural master negotiator, often seen haggling for a better price at garage sales or estate sales. Jack’s proudest accomplishment though, was his time with his kids and grandkids. He was a constant presence at their sporting events, school functions, and took immense joy in taking them trick-or-treating, creating traditions that supported not just excitement, but true bonding. Jack’s life was a celebration of togetherness, and he wanted as much time with his family as he could.

He will be missed by those who loved him most, his twin daughters Nikka (Erick) Owens and Anna Mandala; his grandchildren Carter, Aivianna, Joey and bonus grandpup Poopa; his brothers Vito “Vic” and John Mandala; niece and nephews Gina (Josh), Jonathan, Justin (Audine) and all of their families. He is predeceased by his parents Sam and Nina; his twin brother Joey, and his sister-in-law Nanci Mandala.

Visitation will take place on Thursday, November 6, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of funeral service, 11:30 a.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Road, Rockford, Illinois 61108. Burial to follow at Calvary Catholic Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family to be established at a later date. To send online condolences or share memories, please visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com