Jim Lail, 60, of Clarendon Hills, passed away unexpectedly Nov. 27, 2023.
Jim was born in Harvey in 1962 to James and Donna Lail. He grew up with his younger sister, Jodi, in Dolton, and proudly graduated from Thornridge High School alongside his group of cherished friends.
He went on to attend the University of Kentucky, receiving a scholarship for track and field, and competed as a shot put and discus thrower. After his freshman year, he transferred to Eastern Illinois University, where he met the love of his life, Lori.
His list of friends is long, a testimony to his warm heart and fun-loving nature, which always made those around him feel included and encouraged to join the fun. Among his best buddies were Julie Riedle and Mark and Joyce Zelenika. He also loved his four-legged friends, Sammi, Luna and Leia.
Jim was an avid movie and sports lover (especially football). He was always cheering on his favorite teams, including the White Sox, Bears, Nebraska Cornhuskers and Cincinnati Bearcats.
His true passion later in life (other than chess) was fly fishing, and he enjoyed annual trips with his fishing buddies on the streams of Colorado and Wisconsin.
Above all, Jim's greatest love was his family. He was a loving husband and dedicated father, who took immense pride in his children.
He enjoyed nothing more than spending time with his family. He will be deeply missed by his friends, family and all who knew him.
He is survived by his wife of 30 years, Lori; his four children, Gabrielle, Gillian, Isabelle and Dylan; his sister, Jodi (Carl) Jones; his nieces and nephews, CJ, Noah and Daniel Jones and Chris and Sydney Herzog; and his in-laws, Una Mae Herzog, Sue Barca, Mark Herzog and Kim Rosselle.
A celebration of life will be held from 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 16, at Katherine Legge Memorial Lodge, 5901 S. County Line Road, Hinsdale.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Family Legacy Fund via Zelle at [email protected]. Check also may be made payable to Lori Lail.
Brian Powell Funeral Directors of Hinsdale handled the arrangements.
