James "Fred" Fredrick Miller

James "Fred" Miller, Age 73, of Loves Park, entered the next phase of his eternal journey on October 11, 2024. He came into this world a Love Child to Alice Smith and James Tredup on May 2, 1951 in Elgin, Illinois. He grew up in Woodstock, Illinois, graduating from Woodstock Community High School in 1969. He graduated from Northern Illinois University in 1981 with a Bachelors of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering, after which he moved to the Rockford area. He also obtained a Masters in Industrial Management from Northern Illinois University in 2007. Fred worked for Greenlee Textron in Rockford in several positions and ended his career there as a Division Facilities Manager. He also served his country with great pride, with two years of active duty in Germany in 1971-1972, and one year in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003-2004, establishing a very successful and rewarding career as a ember of the U.S. Army Reserves. He served a total of 35 years, obtaining the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Engineer Branch.

He was the proud papa of two wonderful kids, Justin James, 40, and Chelsea Jenee, 38, who he adored more than life itself. He was also a very proud Boppa to Hawthorne Murphy, Rohm Fredrich, and Britton James. His most treasured moments in life were those spent camping, vacationing, and enjoying everyday activities with his children and grandchildren. He is also the oldest of 18 children - 12 girls and 6 boys. In addition to his children and grandchildren, he is survived by his sisters - Janet, Kathy, Debbie, Doreen, Shirley, Bonnie, Patty, Barbara, Donna, Sandra, and Brenda; and brothers Gary, Wesley, and Fred, spread all across the country. His sister Betty Jo and brothers Bob and Glenn preceded him in death, ad did his father Jim and mother Alice. His family also consists of a million aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews.

Cremation rites will be accorded and a Celebration of Life will be held at a future date to be determined.

In lieu of flowers, Fred wanted donations sent to his favorite charity, St. Jude's Children's Hospital.