James Wessman

JAMES O. WESSMAN, 85 ROCKFORD - Jim Wessman, 85, passed away Sunday, July 21, 2013, at home in Rockford, surrounded by his loving family. He was born April 22, 1928, in Deland, FL, the son of Lloyd and Gertrude (Johnson) Wessman. He graduated from East High School in 1945 and married his former wife, Helga in Germany in 1953. Jim was a proud U.S. Veteran serving in the Army during the Korean conflict, and as an Army officer in Germany. Jim also served for 20 years in the Coast Guard Auxiliary. He worked in drafting, engineering, and advertising, retiring from Logli Supermarkets after 25 years as Director of Advertising. He and his companion of 25 years, Patricia A. Todd, enjoyed spending time with family and friends and playing with their dog, Muffy. Jim had a very upbeat positive attitude and loved boating, the Chicago Bears, and animals. Jim was an avid gun enthusiast and enjoyed target shooting with friends at NIRPC. Survivors include his loving companion, Pat Todd; son, Jeff (Denise) Wessman grandson, Chase; son, Greg Wessman; daughter, Elana (John) Thalman, grandson, Dustin; son, Mark Wessman, grandchildren, Logan, Cora, and Connor; Jim's brother, Dick (Marlene) Wessman; brother, Gene (Bev) Wessman; Pat's daughter, Leslie Todd (Mark McLaren) and children, Benjamin and Lucas; Pat's daughter, Tracy (Greg) Whipkey and children, Elise, Josh and Aubrey. He was predeceased by his parents. Special thanks to all of his friends for their loving support during his battle with cancer, to Dr. W. R. Edwards and his kind staff at ACT Medical Group (SwedishAmerican), and to the warm staff at Heartland Hospice. Jim chose to donate his body to science. A private memorial gathering will held in the near future. Memorials in Jim's name may be made to SwedishAmerican Regional Cancer Center or Noah's Ark Animal Sanctuary in Rockford.