James "Jim" Fernstaedt passed away on September 19, 2026, at Serenity Estates Nursing Home in Freeport. Jim was the oldest of 5 children born to Herbert and Anna (Hastings) Fernstaedt on January 18, 1942. He was a lifelong farmer and resident of Jo Daviess County, following in his father's footsteps. He took over the family farm after his father's passing in 1961. He graduated in 1960 from Warren High School. He was united in marriage to Carole Meier in September 1962. They had 4 children and divorced in 1978. Jim later married Joyce (Vick) Grenoble on October 24, 1988. Jim worked for several local farms throughout the years, including Harbach Farms, Gerlach Farms and High Plains Pork - Steve Moest.

Jim was an avid Chicago Bears, Warren Warriors and John Deere tractors fan. He and Joyce also enjoyed watching their children and grandchildren participate in their sports activities and driving around the Northern Illinois countryside. You could find Jim at Nora Bar most days. He enjoyed visiting with friends and neighbors and playing euchre. Jim would do most anything for the people he cared about and wouldn't even think twice about it. To him, it was just being kind and helpful. Jim worked hard and wasn't afraid to get his hands dirty and tried to instill the value of hard work in his children.

Jim is survived by his wife Joyce of 38 years and Rizzo, children, Terri (Gary) Makos-Swigart, Deb (Tim) Hamilton, Anita (Mark) Mau, Dan (Stacy) Fernstaedt, Jody (Scott) Kubat and Roger (Christy) Grenoble. He is further survived by 13 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren with two on the way, His siblings, David Fernstaedt, Tom (Judy)Fernstaedt and Barb (Jim) Barkau. As well as many nieces, nephews, in-laws, cousins, friends and neighbors.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Blanche, Sister-in-law, Vicki Fernstaedt, Son-in-law, Bob Makos and his mother and father in-law, Lyle and Betty Vick.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, from 3:00-7:00 pm at the Bartell Leamon Funeral Home in Warren, IL.

A Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, October 1, 2026, at 11:00 am at St. Johns Lutheran Church in Lena, IL with a visitation from 10:00 am until time of service.

Officiating the service will be Pastor Matt Mau.

Luncheon to follow the service in the fellowship hall of the church.

Cremation rites have been accorded.

The family would like to say a special thank you to Brandi and Tierra and the Staff of Willows Serenity Estates and Mercy Health Hospice of Freeport, IL.

A memorial has been established in his memory.