James R Hedlund, Sr. died on Wednesday, May 28, 2025.  He was born on June 29, 1938, in Rockford, IL where he resided until he was 65 and relocated to Summerfield, FL, and in 2018 relocated to the Villages, FL. He was proceeded in death by his wife of 51 years, Madelyn Hedlund.  Surviving are his present wife Karen (Rezner) Hedlund; sons: James, Jr., Jeffrey (Erin), Michael (Linda ) and Todd (Julie); three grandchildren; and five great grandchildren.  He belonged to several clubs in The Villages:  The Cigar Club, the Nascar Club , The Rockford Club, and the Ancestry Club.  He began his work life as an airport firefighter, an EMT, and a P olice Officer.  In addition to his public service he was a successful entrepreneur owning Uncle Sam's Tavern in Rockford which was awarded recognition as The Best Tavern in the USA in 1976.  He owned and operated a coach travel business with trips arranged all over the US and also transporting acting groups and musicians on tour.  He retired from United Technologies in 2002.  Arrangement entrusted with BALDWIN BROTHERS Funeral & Cremation-Spanish Springs, 352-430-1449.  Sentiments are encouraged at www.baldwincremation.com .