James R. Sarver

James (Jim) Robert Sarver, 81, of Dixon IL passed away peacefully May 6, 2025 surrounded by his family. Jim was born May 11, 1943 to Robert (Bob) and Martha (Podwell) Sarver in Beloit, WI. Jim spent his life building community through his work at the Top O’ Town tavern, Singer Mental Health Center, Sinnissippi Center, and as a member of various nonprofit boards. Jim was warmly regarded by those who knew him personally and professionally. While Jim was honored for his civic work many times, he would tell you that his biggest accomplishment -- and the one he was most proud of -- was his family. Jim found his North star, his beloved wife, Inger Synnøve, while in the Air Force and stationed in Wiesbaden, Germany. Inger came to Germany from Fredrikstad, Norway, as an au pair. It was a serendipitous encounter that led a boy from Wisconsin and girl from Norway to meet and fall in love. Jim and Inger were married on September 2, 1965 and soon thereafter welcomed their beautiful children, Cynthia (Cindy) and Patrick to start their family in Beloit, WI. Jim will be remembered as “one of the good guys.” He never met someone he couldn’t call a friend, and he especially enjoyed those who had a love for fishing the Canadian waters and cheering on his beloved Green Bay Packers. Jim touched the lives of so many people in ways he will never know, especially through his enduring contributions as a leader of Sinnissippi Center in Dixon, IL and the many other community health organizations he helped to lead and build. It was a good life and he will be missed by so many. Jim is preceded in death by his mother and father, Martha and Robert. He is survived by his devoted wife, his son Patrick (Cindy Barriga), his daughter Cynthia (Kip Hedges), and grandchildren Martina, Harrison, and Leonardo Sarver, and Julian Escher. Jim is also survived by many beloved family members across the ocean in Norway. As Jim wished, his family will gather for a private ceremony in his remembrance. The family requests that those who wish to express sympathy consider making a donation in his name to Sinnissippi Center or Heritage Square in lieu of flowers.

James R. Sarver

May 11, 1943 - May 6, 2025