James Alan Giglio

James (Jim) Alan Giglio, 65, of Mokena, Illinois, passed away surrounded by his loving family on February 18, 2024.

Jim was born in Chicago on August 14, 1958 and raised in South Holland, IL by his parents, James and Barbara. As the oldest of four children who lost their father at a young age, Jim filled the role of protector and provider of tough love. In high school, Jim was an all-season athlete playing football, golf and basketball. But he starred in baseball where he won many awards, including All-Area at Thornridge High School. Most importantly, he met the love of his life, Anne, who he later married.

While working in the trades, Jim was honored to be elected as a Thornton Township Trustee. He later established his career with the state of Illinois working for the Secretary of State and the Illinois Department of Transportation.

Best known for his big personality and signature good hair, Jim could light up any room he entered. He was quick with a story and a laugh, which made him friends everywhere he went. He relished in the simple pleasures of life — a nice glass of whiskey, freshly cut grass, and the tug of a smallmouth bass at the end of his line. He spent many years enjoying 18-holes on the golf course and casts at dawn on the fishing boat. Ever the extrovert, every activity was another reason to be connected to his many friends and family.

Nothing brought him greater joy than his family. Often calling her “my angel Anne”, he adored his wife, and they enjoyed dates to try new foods or frequent their favorite spots. His greatest pride were his legacies — his two sons and their families. He was Papa to his six grandchildren, who adored his silly antics, movie time snuggles, and ice cream money he frequently slipped them.

Jim fought cancer and many subsequent health issues with a fierce determination. He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Anne Giglio; two children, Kyle (Eva) Giglio and Chris (Casey) Giglio; six cherished grandchildren, Esme, Grayson, Bryce, Remi, Skyler, and Benjamin; and seven nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, James and Barbara Giglio and his father-in-law, Eugene Stirchak.

A visitation will be held at Kurtz Memorial Chapel at 65 Old Frankfort Way in Frankfort, IL on Friday, February 23rd from 3:00-8:00pm. A memorial mass will be held at St. Jude Catholic Church at 241 W. 2nd Avenue in New Lenox, IL on Saturday, February 24th at 10:00am.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to a cause near to Jim’s heart: The Tunnel to Towers Foundation, which builds mortgage-free smart homes for the most catastrophically injures veterans and first responders