James Duffey

James Raymond Duffey, 77, passed away on 8/9/2020 after as stubborn and courageous fight (because his children asked him too), since October 2019. He was born April 23, 1943 in Rockford, IL to Edith (Austin) and Raymond Duffey. He was the 7th of 8 children. He married Linda Miller and had 2children, Penny (Tim) Wisemiller, IL and Robert (Sherry) Duffey, TN. After divorcing, he married Karen Myers and had Shawn (Dana) Duffey and Shana (Brian)Webb, both of IL. He enjoyed many things during the “dash” between his dates. Garage sales, fishing, drinking, old cars and kids. Mostly he enjoyed anything that was considered fun. He tried to make fun, wherever he was and whatever he was doing. He was in it for all or nothing. Many were deeply affected by his “all” and his “nothing”. He liked to joke and poke and his favorite motto was “It is what it is”. When leaving Rockford, he lived in both Florida and Alabama for a number of years, returning to Rockford in 2006.  He is survived by 3 sisters, Betty Feeley, Barb Lehman of IL, June Henigan of Colorado and sister-in law Jean Duffey of IL, both of his ex-wives, Linda and Karen. His 4 children, 5 grandchildren, Jessica (George)Story, IL - Donald James Ward II, IN - Jazmine Gregory and Torrey Duffey, IL -Timothy Middendorf, TN. 7 Great Grandchildren - Riley Story, Gianna Ruvolo, Jonas Story, Ayden and Abel Ruvolo, Tyler and Justin Middendorf along with several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother and father, siblings Robert, Mary-Lou, Jack and Paula and many special friends. We would like to give special thanks, to the many caretakers that he has had over these past few years. European Home Health, Debbie, Da Queisha, Kimberly, his neighbors (Luke) and roommate Rob, Rosewood/Carriage House Rehab, Mercy and Swedish American Hospital, West Suburban EMS crew, special friends Mike and Chuck. We all journeyed with him together and we would like to recognize the appreciation we have for the care and companionship that dad received. We know he wouldn’t have been able to fight for so long, without you all. ? A graveside service will be held at 1pm, Tuesday August 18that 1pm, in the Chapel of Love Mausoleum at Sunset Memorial Gardens, 8800 North Alpine Road, Machesney Park, IL. We will have an additional gathering after services, with location to be announced at conclusion.