Celebration Of Life To Honor Beloved Sports Announcer Jim Mizener

DOWNERS GROVE, IL — Community members are invited to share stories and recall memories at a Celebration of Life to honor beloved Downers Grove teacher and sports announcer Jim Mizener, who died of coronavirus in November 2020 at 78.

Renowned as the "Voice of the Mustangs," Mizener announced games at Downers Grove North and South High Schools for more than 40 years. He was inducted into the Downers Grove South Hall of Fame in 2005.

Mizener's career began at Downers Grove South in 1965, when he was hired to teach drafting and architecture. Over the next 55 years, Mizener made an impact on countless students, Downers South High School Principal Ed Schwartz explained in a news release.

“Jim was a fixture at South High and his impact will resonate forever,” Schwartz said. “He cared deeply and worked hard to make everyone feel special and that they belonged in our school community.”

Mizener's family will be on hand during the Celebration of Life to display mementos from his career and tell stories about his life.

The ceremony will begin at 2:15 p.m. with a tribute to Mizener. Prior to Mizener's memorial, Downers Grove South will host a community open house to share its recent master facilities plan renovations.

What: Celebration of Life for Jim Mizener

When: Sept. 11 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Where: Downers Grove South High School, Outdoor Stadium, 1436 Norfolk St., Downers Grove