Obituaries
Obituary: James M. Kovac
He carried a warmth that made others feel welcome and valued, approaching every challenge with thoughtful insight and calm determination.
Obituary was published and funeral arrangements were entrusted to the care and direction of the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home and Crematory.
James M. Kovac
James Michael “Jimmy” Kovac, age 61, of Joliet, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at home, from natural causes.
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Born July 18, 1964, in Joliet, he was the son of Stephen J. and Carolyn A. (Glasgow) Kovac, and was a graduate of Joliet West High School. He continued his education at Lewis University where he received his Bachelor’s degree in Accounting. Jimmy worked in accounting and management for many years in the insurance industry, and most recently for Hollywood Casino.
Jimmy was an avid bowler and Town and Country Lanes in Joliet was like a second home to him where he spent many happy times with friends, both old and new, and made many happy memories.
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Jimmy was a caring and devoted son, brother, and uncle who loved his nieces and nephews as though they were his own children. He was also a proud Godfather to numerous family members and friend’s children. He had an outgoing and friendly personality, was always willing to help anyone in need, and was supporting of those down on their luck. He especially enjoyed frequent trips to his favorite destination, Las Vegas, NV.
Surviving are his brother, Stephen Scott (Sheila) Kovac of Surprise, AZ; his sister, Cheri (Paul) Wietting of Channahon, IL; his niece and nephews, Jason (Lori) Kovac, Maegan (Michael) Fantozzi, Justin (Jill) Wietting, and Brandon (Lindsay) Wietting; his great-nieces and great-nephews, Jacob, Karalyn and Emalie Kovac, Makayla and Mia Fantozzi, Caleb and Baby Wietting, and Mason and Maddox Wietting; an uncle, Kenneth (Brona) Glasgow; and numerous cousins.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Carolyn, who passed away within hours of his own passing, as well as his father, Stephen.
Jimmy’s passing will be marked on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at Town and Country Lanes, 2231 W. Jefferson Street, Joliet, IL, at 2:26 p.m., which represents his average bowling score, and family and friends are invited to celebrate his life there from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Cremation rites have been accorded and interment will be private.
Fred C. Dames Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. For more information, please call (815) 741-5500, or visit www.fredcdames.com where you may leave an online condolence or share a favorite memory.
