James C. Garrett
Obituary's Biography:
James Charles Garrett, age 73, a resident of Fox Lake, Il, passed away on July 19, 2022 at Northwestern Hospital in McHenry, Il. He was born on December 7, 1948 to Charles and Dorothy Garrett. Jim was born in Chicago but his family soon moved to Lake Villa, Il where he grew up in a neighborhood called Venetian Village. He met many lifelong friends there- many of which he stayed in touch with. Stories of “garage basketball”, Whiffle Ball, 16” softball games, and badminton in the vacant lot next door were told on an annual basis. He loved that place. Jim attended Grayslake High School where he starred in three sports, most notably baseball. His baseball career continued when he went to Valparaiso University where he graduated in 1971. After college he worked for his father at Pepsi. Shortly thereafter, he got a job at U.S. Envelope/Westvaco/MeadWestvaco where he stayed for 35+ years. It’s here where he made an indelible impression on many people through his mentorship, business knowledge, and incredible work ethic. He ultimately ascended to Plant Manager where he oversaw the construction of a new facility in Kenosha, WI. Although he was a humble man, we knew he took great pride in these accomplishments- which made him happy. Dad was very involved in our lives and we appreciated it- whether it was coaching or attending various sporting events, dance recitals, camping excursions, graduations or the birth of his grandchildren. He also provided great advice when we needed it most. He was an awesome father that loved his entire family greatly. And we will always love and remember him just as much. Rest in peace, Dad.
James is survived by his wife, Genie Garrett; his children, Jason (Nancy) Garrett and Emily (Chris) Garrett; his grandchildren, Ruby, Eloise, Grace, Arloa, Otto James, and CoraRose; his sister, Betty Garrett and his nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; and sister, Charlene Huhnstock.
A celebration of life will be held at Strang Funeral Chapel, 410 E. Belvidere Road, Grayslake, Il 60030 on Sunday, July 24, 2022 from 1:00pm until 4:00pm. Service and Interment will be held privately. Memorial contributions may be made to Cubs Charities https://www.mlb.com/cubs/community/cubs-charities/donate For more information, please call (847) 223-8122 or visit www.StrangFuneral.org.
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jim came into my life as my big sister’s boyfriend when i was a middle-schooler. he was young, handsome, smart and really seemed to enjoy being part of our big, boisterous family. i was included in their wedding and present for the birth of their children. he was there when i was married and throughout the birth of my children. jim loved babies and was so easy with them, holding and cooing them in his arms. he was a good father and grandfather, “papa”. he will live on in our hearts. he will live on in the lives of his children and grandchildren. he will be missed by so many, friends and family alike. we were lucky to have known him in this lifetime. rest well dear brother.
I was a high school classmate of Jim’s. I knew of him as he was very popular, excelling in sports! I really came to know him when my very best friend Genie and he married. We spent many wonderful hours together during their first years of married life. I soon became close friends with Jim as he is an easy person to love. We called ourselves “the three musketeers”. I’ll always cherish that time of my life as having a friend like him is priceless. Godspeed Jim, you are loved and admired by so many. Rest in peace my dear friend.
I met Jim on the first day of kindergarten and I remember him as my first ever friend. He could throw a ball so hard that when you were the catcher you had no choice but to catch the ball. If it hit you you were hurting. I have so many memories of him and with him. It was great to talk with Jeanie and the wonderful children and lovely grandchildren that she and Jim brought into the world. So many memories. My life was better having been Jim’s friend.
Jim and I were classmates at Grayslake High. He was a welcoming person who always made me feel comfortable and accepted. He was the proverbial good guy. The last time we visited was at a high school class reunion, and I distinctly remember his sense of humor as we recalled past escapades from our youth. My condolences to his family and loved ones. May you find solace in your memories. Peace.
So very sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. He & I go way back to kindergarten thru highschool. I can’t remember a time when he wasn’t in my school life, classes, games, & band. He was always kind & a lot of fun. My sympathy to Genie & family. Jim will be missed.