James L. Barkus

James L. Barkus, 82, of Monee, IL, passed away peacefully on November 20, 2025, surrounded by his family. Jim was born in Evergreen Park, IL on November 26, 1942.

Jim is survived by his high school sweetheart and best friend, Patricia (nee Churchill); beloved children, Jeffrey, James, Michael (Chrissie), and Amy; and adored grandchildren, Brittany, Jake, Mireyna, Alexis, and Ozzie. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Justin and Bertha (nee Paldowic) Barkus, and his brother, Paul (Peggy) Barkus. He touched the lives of many cousins, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and friends.

Jim grew up in the Roseland neighborhood of Chicago and graduated from Mendel Catholic High School. He went on to work for International Harvester as a screw machine operator. Jim served as a volunteer fireman for the Monee Volunteer Fire Department. He acted as Cub Master when his sons were in Cub Scouts as children.

Jim and Pat’s love story began at the Swank Roller Rink when they were 13 years old. They dated throughout high school and were married on April 25, 1964. They spent 69 years by each other’s sides raising a family, making memories, and loving each other through the ups and downs.

Jim had many passions and hobbies. He was an avid fisherman and spent countless hours waiting to reel in the next big catch. Whether it was catching a marlin in Mexico, deep sea fishing in Florida, or filling his basket with bluegill in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, he loved the sport. Many memories were made on fishing trips with his cherished family and lifelong friends. He lived his best life when he and Pat moved to Culver, IN to enjoy their retirement years cruising around Lake Latonka on his pontoon boat. Jim also enjoyed hunting; deer, pheasants, or the squirrels digging in his expansive garden. He inherited his mother’s green thumb and always produced a substantial harvest which he spent hours canning and sharing with others. Jim loved to travel and was fortunate to share many adventures with Pat. They enjoyed fiestas in Mexico, cruised the oceans to sunny destinations, and hula danced in Hawaii. Jim always had a special place in his heart for Crystal Falls, MI, where he spent many family vacations as a child and proceeded to take his own family every summer to enjoy making memories at Lake Mary. Watching the Chicago Bears, Notre Dame football, and NASCAR races were enjoyed pastimes. Jim loved solving a challenging crossword puzzle and playing cards, especially Salamander, with family and friends. He enjoyed the simple things in life and his legacy will live on through all who had the privilege of knowing him.  Heartfelt thanks to Uplifted Care for providing the utmost compassion and hospice care.

Jim’s life will be celebrated on Monday, December 1, 2025 at St. Boniface Catholic Church, 5304 W. Main St., Monee, IL. Visitation will take place at 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow at St. Casimir Catholic Cemetery, 4401 W. 111th St., Chicago, IL.

 Arrangements entrusted to Crete Funeral Home, 1182 Main Street, Crete, Illinois. Interment: Information: (708) 672-7600.