James "Jim" H. Szepelak, age 78, passed away on Friday, July 5, 2024. He is survived by his loving wife Marilyn (nee Koesling), whom he has been married to since October 27, 2001, his children Jamie (Daniel) Bird and Timothy (Carol) Szepelak, grandchildren Danielle (Todd) Hepworth and Riley Bird, step-grandchildren Renee (Cody) Hosback, Courtney (Shane) Misner, Kristen Garmon, Aydan Delaney, and Kaleb Delaney, great grandchildren Grace, Ryker, and Maddie Hepworth, siblings Jeanann (Jack) Woodard, Gerald (Janet) Szepelak, Gary (Karen) Szepelak, Kathy (David) Disabato, and Jay (Debbie) Szepelak. Numerous nieces, nephews, and the family dog Gigi also survive. Preceded in death by his parents Henry and Lois (nee Hummistan) Szepelak.

Jim proudly served his country with the United States Army during Vietnam. He owned and operated his own business, Szepelak and Sons Automotive, in Joliet and retired at the age of 70. He had a passion for motorcycles and loved to take the pontoon boat out on Lake Schafer every weekend. Jim could often be found sipping on a Stroh's or Wild Turkey and eating cookies.

Visitation for Jim will take place on Wednesday, July 17, 2024 from 4-8:00 p.m. at Forsythe Gould Funeral Home. Funeral service and burial will take place the following day and will be private. Interment Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, Elwood, IL. Arrangements entrusted to Forsythe Gould Funeral Home, 507 S. State St., Manhattan, IL 60442, 815-478-3321, www.forsythegouldfh.com.