James D. "Jim" Ferris

Oregon, IL, James D. “Jim” Ferris, age 88, passed away on Sunday October 2, 2022 in his home.  Jim was born on June 25, 1934 in Savanna, IL; the son of Dewey & Cora (Hubble) Ferris.  He graduated from Savanna High School class of 1953.

Jim married Betty Boyden on December 22, 1961 in Oregon, IL.  He served in the Navy Reserves from 1950 through 1963.  Jim worked at E.D. Etnyre Company, State of Illinois Youth Services, the Milwaukee Railroad, and was a security officer at Swedish American Hospital.

Jim helped establish the Deputy Reserve program in Ogle County under Sheriff Brooks. He was very active with the Oregon Ambulance Service, and became one of the first active EMTs. He was president of the ambulance service for many years, he was also very active in the upgrade of the ambulance service to a Paramedic status.

Jim enjoyed traveling, music, outdoors, feeding the birds and squirrels, and most all his family.

Jim is survived by his wife: Betty Ferris; daughter: Connie (Jim) Shultz; sons: David (Jacqui), Tom (Larraine), and Duane (Becky); 12 grandchildren; and 13 great grandchildren.

Jim is preceded in death by his parents; daughter: Debbie; brother: Frank; and sisters: Betty Lou and Wilma.

Memorial services will be held on Monday October 10, 2022 at 11:00 A.M. in St. Bride’s Episcopal Church, Oregon, IL with Rev. Eldred George officiating.  Burial will be held in Riverview Cemetery, Oregon, IL.

Memorial to be established.  If family and friends would like to send a card, you are able to mail them to P.O.Box 141, Oregon, IL.