James P. Smiles Obituary

James “Jim” Paterson Smiles

Loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 5, 2023, at Lightways Hospice Home.

He was born in Chicago on June 25, 1930, to Bertha Smiles (née Paterson) and Samuel Smiles. Jim's life was a testament to hard work, dedication, and the importance of family and friendships.

Jim spent his formative years in Joliet, Illinois, where he graduated from Joliet Township High School Class of 1948 and Joliet Junior College. His strong sense of patriotism led Jim to serve in the U.S. Naval Reserves.

Jim's career spanned 43 years at Northern Illinois Gas Co., He served on the executive board of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers #176 and as treasurer of the Joliet Blue Flame Credit Union until his retirement in the 1990s.

Jim's zest for life extended beyond his professional life. He was an avid bowler, relished attending and assisting at auctions, enjoyed solving crossword puzzles, and cherished the time spent with family and friends.

In 1952, Jim married the love of his life, Jean Elizabeth Ramsay. Together, they raised three daughters Patricia Ziebart of Hoffman Estates, Barbara Smiles of Joliet, and Sharon (Ray) Stukel of Joliet. Four grandchildren Mike (Meagan) Stukel, Brian (Emily Stiehl) Ziebart, Katie (Ryan) Freerkson and Sarah (Michael) Sicher. His six great-grandchildren Ellie, Wesley and Austin Sicher, Theo and Sophie Ziebart and Lucas Stukel. Jim adored his family and took immense pride in their accomplishments. Also survived by his special friends Dave Martis and Marie Quarcini.

Jim was preceded in death by his mother and stepfather, Bertha and Ralph Michael, his beloved wife Jean, and his three much-loved golden retrievers.

Funeral services will be held at the Carlson-Holmquist-Sayles Funeral Home & Crematory, 2320 Black Road, Saturday, October 14th at 10:30 A.M. Interment Woodlawn Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Lightways Hospice in Jim's name will be appreciated. Visitation will be held Saturday from 9:00 A.M. until time of services. For information please call (815) 744-0022 or visit www.CHSFUNERAL.com