Friends and family of James (Jim) Drenton surprised him on his 95th birthday on Saturday, February 6. Jim retired in 1977 from the C&O Railroad after 35 years. He and his wife Ann and their children had a cottage on Big Brower Lake during the 50s and 60s before making it their year-round home in the mid-60s. They later moved into the City of Rockford. The couple have two sons, one daughter, several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Jim has many interests. Some of them are flowers, fishing, golf, and fixing things that break. He is a charter member of the North Kent Golf Club and was a member of the Great Lakes Golf League. He enjoys good health and loves walking around the dam and talking with the people fishing there.
One of Jim’s favorite past times is shopping. He still Christmas shops for all of his family members, giving special consideration to each one’s age and interest. Because he loves to shop and help others less fortunate he is a frequent contributor to the local food pantry.
Jim enjoys all the wonderful friends and neighbors he has met while living in Rockford and appreciates all the help they give him.
Guest at the party Mary Ohnsman said, “People wonder what heaven will be like. When you’re celebrating with a group of family and friends, that’s about as close to heaven on Earth as you can get.”
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