Obituary of James Jimenez

James R. Jimenez "Jim" Age 81, of Rockdale, IL, passed away peacefully in his sleep, Friday, January 22, 2016 at home. He was born July 25, 1934 in Ottawa, IL to the late (Mary (nee Alvarez) and Arnold Jimenez. A U.S Marine Corp. Staff Sergeant who served during the Korean War-Semper Fi-. Jim had many accomplishments in life and was an entrepreneur and succesful businessman. A pillar of his beloved community of Rockdale, he served as a village trustee for 12 years and as Mayor from 1993-1997 being one of the few hispanic village presidents in the state. Beloved soul-mate, best friend and husband of 59 years to Barbara (nee Parker) Jimenez; loving father of Cindy (Pete) Medina, Robert (Kathy) Jimenez and David (Kari) Jimenez; proud grandfather of Susan (Chuck) Storm, Bobby (Nicole) Jimenez, Lauren Medina, Peter Medina, Lindsey (Marcelo) Torres, Josh Jimenez, Isabel Jimenez; devoted great-grandfather of 6 (with another on the way); dearest brother of the late Helen (Joseph) Montez, Joseph (Sharon) Jimenez, the late Rosemary (Humberto) Perez, Richard (Carol) Jimenez, and the late Mary Jimenez; fond uncle of many nieces and nephews. Jim was loved and admired by many dear friends and family including Clyde and Rachel Sanders and family as well as his beloved companion "Sparky". A member of the Pace Board of Directors, Joliet Elks Lodge #296, the Lions Club and a former member of VFW Cantigny Post #367. Mr. Jimenez loved to travel with family and friends, especially his most recent trip to Mexico with family in early January. He enjoyed Sunday's at the River and being generous to those less fortunate. He will be remembered fondly by everyone who knew him as a kind, compassionate hard-working family man. Funeral Services for James Jimenez will be held Wednesday January 27, 2016, 9:00 a.m. at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black Rd. (at Essington Rd) Joliet to St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow in Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, Elwood, IL. In lieu of flowers, memorials in his name can be made to Autism Speaks of Chicago. Visitation will be Tuesday from 2-8 p.m. at the funeral home. For more information: (815) 741-5500 or visit his Book of Memories at www.fredcdames.com