James W. Jesk, Jr.

James W. Jesk Jr, 89, of Lemont, IL, US Navy Veteran, passed away peacefully on November 10, 2021. Beloved husband of the late Joyce Jesk. Loving father of the late Kathleen Jesk, Kimberly (Andy) Lindemann, and the late Kristi Jesk.

Devoted 'Da' to Christopher (Jenny) Bunch, Jeremy (Ashley) Lindemann, Jason (Kassie) Bay, Brianna (Kerry) Koepp, Elizabeth (Curtis) Grigas, James Felgenhauer, Courtney Bay, Marcus (Amanda) Felgenhauer, Katey (Sean) Sinclair, Evan Bay, and Corey Ghelfi. Proud great-grandfather to Leah, Lily, Abby, Jake, Owen, Cami, Kian, Reese, Marley, Rosalia, and River.

Dear brother of the late Terrance (Kathy), the late Mary Arliss (the late Joe), Dale (Renetta) Jesk, Sharon (the late Al) Poe, John (the late Sharon) Jesk, and Robin (Joanne) Jesk. Fond uncle to many nieces and nephews.

James served as the mayor of Oak Forest from 1975-1985. He was a long time employee of Andrew Corporation and in 1993, at the age of 61, he founded Deerfield Construction Group. Nearly two decades later, Jim built Sawgrass Farms, where he excelled in the harness racing community winning major races across the country.

He had many hobbies including collecting sports memorabilia, attending Blackhawks games, skiing, golfing, sharing Navy stories, reading, and hanging out with his Yorkshire Terrier, Molly.

James’ subtle, yet powerful, voice made a difference in many lives. Those who knew him will remember him by his overwhelming generosity and quick-witted personality

A visitation will be held at Kurtz Memorial Chapel, 65 Old Frankfort Way, Frankfort IL 60423 on Tuesday, November 16, 2021 from 3:00m PM until 8:00 PM. Funeral service in the funeral home chapel on Wednesday, November 17, 2021 at 11:00 AM. Inurnment will be held at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, Elwood

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to the Wounded Warrior Project would be appreciated.