Freeport – James E. Pettenger, 65 of Freeport passed away at FHN Memorial Hospital after a brief illness.  He was born on January 4, 1957 to the late Earl and Evelena (Bell) Pettenger.  He worked for Modern Plating for 15+ years.

James was a jokester who also enjoyed old westerns and Phil Collins music.  He enjoyed spending time with his nieces, nephews and neighborhood kids.  They brought out the youth in him and reminded him of younger times.

He is survived by his companion, Kassey Lewis and his son, Parker both of Freeport.  His daughter, Natasha (Noah Posse) Sargent of CA; Sisters, Brenda Brumley of Rewey, WI and Joann Eddington of Bowling Green, KY as well as his brother, Michael Pettenger of Belvidere, IL.

He is preceded in death by his parents and his sisters, Rose Pettenger and Shirley Pettenger.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.  Cremation rites were accorded and condolences can be left for the family at www.walkermortuary.com .