Obituary of Vincent F. Scopacasa

Vincent F. Scopacasa "Jimmy Dykes" Age 81, passed away unexpectedly while surrounded by his family on August 14, 2016 at Adventist Hinsdale Hospital as a result of a cerebral hemorrhage. Born in Chicago, he grew up in Chinatown's "25th Street" neighborhood before moving his family to Hickory Hills and then retiring to Carillon in Plainfield 20 years ago. A U. S. Army veteran, he went on to become a proud, lifelong member of Local #134, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW). In his retirement, he kept busier than ever. If he wasn't swimming, walking or getting his beloved black Cadillac waxed, he could be found in the Carillon woodshop making clocks, cutting boards, bird houses, etc. for friends and family and toy carousels, Ferris wheels and doll houses for his grandchildren. His heart and soul is permanently etched into every gift he made and his legacy will live on through these pieces. Most importantly, he made it a point to attend his grandchildren's games and activities. And while he didn't live in the St. Charles, Libertyville or Bolingbrook areas, it often felt like he did since he frequented the grandkids events just like a local. Neither blizzards, blazing heat or aches and pains could keep him away from the fields, gyms, rinks, courts, theatres or schools to cheer on his grandkids - they were truly his pride and joy and he was truly their #1 fan. Preceded by his parents, Frank and Antonetta (nee Figliuzzi) Scopacasa, and one sister, Catherine Scopacasa. Survived by his loving and devoted wife of 54 years, Sara R. (nee Russo) Scopacasa of Plainfield; one daughter, Toni (Michael) Thryselius of St. Charles, IL; two sons, Frank (Colleen) Scopacasa of Libertyville, IL and Jim (Deb) Scopacasa of Bolingbrook, IL; seven grandchildren, Malena and Niklas Thryselius, Marco, Mia and Leo Scopacasa, and Sofia and Samuel Scopacasa; two sisters, Theresa Scopacasa and Jane (the late Peter) Pivac, both of Chicago's Bridgeport neighborhood; a nephew, Jack Pivac also of Bridgeport; two nieces, Michelle (Dan) O'Shea of Chicago, and Monica (Phil) Childs of Wilmette. Private funeral services were held at Holy Sepulchre Mausoleum in Alsip. Deacon Tim Rehor officiated. Full military honors were accorded by the United States Army. A Memorial Mass for Vincent Scopacasa will be held at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 2003 Hassert Blvd, Naperville, IL 60564 Saturday September 17, 2016 at 10:30 a.m. Fr Ray Diesbourg will officiate, family will receive friends in the narthex of the church from 9:30 a.m. until time of services . Fred C. Dames Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. For information please call (815) 741-5500 or visit his Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com