Obituary of James R. Bumgarner
James Ronald “Jim” Bumgarner, of Morris, passed away Tuesday, December 31, 2024 at Lightways Hospice, Joliet, with his loving family by his side.
Jim was born January 11, 1948 in Morris, to David and Veronica (Knapp) Bumgarner. He spent his childhood between Mazon and Barschdorf Farms in Ransom.
Jim graduated from Mazon High School in 1966, and served with the United States Army in Vietnam as a motor pool sergeant. He then worked for Caterpillar for over 30 years, spending some time as a machinist, and at the end of his career as a supervisor. He was well respected and made many friends there.
For 25 years, Jim enjoyed selling cars at Borens Ford and Greenway Motors.
Jim and Gail traveled the area playing euchre in tournaments and card parties. They are members of First United Methodist Church, and the Eagles and Moose.
Jim is survived by his wife of 55 years, Gail, living most of their married life in Morris. He is also survived by his children, Tim (Kathy) of Michigan, John (Robyn) of Channahon, and Kelly (Brad) Stisser of Ottawa; his grandchildren, Zoe Bumgarner and Austin Bumgarner of California, Layne Bumgarner and Quinn Bumgarner of Channahon, and Maggie Stisser, Melanie Stisser and Mary Stisser of Ottawa; two bonus granddaughters, Liz (Chris) Karner of Michigan, and Erika (Zac) Eckblad of Arizona; great-grandson, Atticus Karner; and many in-laws, nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Dave and Ronnie; in-laws, Vern and Gwen Johnson; his sister, Carole (Duane) Barschdorf; his brother, Rich (Jan) Bumgarner.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to Lightways Hospice (www.lightways.org), 250 Water Stone Circle, Joliet, IL 60431. God bless all those special angels who work and volunteer there!
A Memorial Gathering for Jim will be held Friday, January 3, 2025, from 10:00 a.m., until the time of a Memorial Service at 11:00 a.m., at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 1201 W. Route 6 (at Deerpath Drive), Morris. Cremation rites have been accorded and interment will be private.
For more information, please call (815) 942-5040, or visit his Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com
