James Patrick Henry, age 64, of Palos Park, Illinois, passed away April 20, 2022, in his home from natural causes. Jim/Hank/Jimmy is survived by his mother, Patricia, his daughters; Erin (Jarrik) Mitchell and Melanie, his sisters; Pamela (Jesse) Spears and Sharon (Jeff) Hassberger, his brother Michael and his grandson Colin Henry Mitchell. He was predeceased by his father, Patrick.
Jim’s heart and home were always open to anyone who needed them. Born in Chicago, Jim grew up in Palos Park and had a happy childhood. Growing up, he loved swimming and playing trumpet in band at Carl Sandburg High School. He went on to become a proud Purdue Boilermaker, where he studied Mechanical Engineering, and he shared that passion with both of his daughters. He made countless lifelong friendships there and played sousaphone in the Purdue marching band. After college, he traveled to many places for work with his favorite dog, Jake. No matter where he travelled, he always made time to go back to Purdue games with his college friends and was a season ticket holder for both their football and basketball programs.
Jim eventually settled back in Palos Park where he raised his family. Jim had many passions, including live music and the arts but especially the Grateful Dead and he attended as many shows as possible. He was also a long-time member of the Palos Village Players, taking after his father as the lead lighting technician for many seasons.
Jim loved giving back to others, which manifested itself in many ways: from him working as a math teacher and leader of Fenger High School’s robotics program, to less formal mentorship of the younger generation where he always had words of encouragement and hope to share. Jim’s greatest joy in life was spending time with his daughters, Melanie and Erin, and his grandson Colin.
Visitation Sunday, April 24th from 2:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.
Chapel prayers Monday, April 25th, 9:15 a.m. at the KERRY FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION CARE CENTER, 7020 W. 127th Street, Palos Heights proceeding to Our Lady of the Woods Church, 10731 W. 131st street, Orland Park, Mass 10:00 a.m.
Interment at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery will be private and take place at a later date.
www.kerryfh.com ~ (708) 361.4235 ~ www.facebook.com/kerryfuneral
