03/23/2026
Jim and Bev, two of our newest residents, at Independence Village of Rockford, joined our community this past October. Both lifelong Rockford natives, the couple has built a wonderful life together over the past 46 years. They first met in 1980 through a mutual friend of Bev’s, and the rest is history.
Throughout their careers, both Jim and Bev dedicated many years to their work. Bev spent 27 years with Illinois Bell as a switchboard operator, while Jim worked for 42 years at Amerock, serving as a Production Manager.
Family is very important to them. Jim is the proud father of two sons, one daughter, and two granddaughters. Bev is the proud mother of four daughters, six grandsons, one great-granddaughter, and one great-grandson.
Jim is also a proud veteran of the United States Marine Corps and served in Korea for two years. During their earlier years together, Jim and Bev enjoyed square dancing and traveling, often choosing a new destination each year for their vacation.
For more than 20 years, summers meant parades almost every weekend. Jim was very active with the Shriners, performing in hundreds of parades throughout northern Illinois. He was a member of the Oriental Band and later the Magic Carpets.
Today, Jim and Bev enjoy being part of the Independence Village community. You’ll often find them joining outings, playing Bingo, or visiting with the many new friends they’ve made here. We are so grateful to have them as part of our Independence Village of Rockford family.
