Jim was born on July 18, 1944, in Minonk, Illinois, the son of James and Bernice Baxter. He grew up a farm boy along with his six brothers and sisters, and enjoyed working the fields and taking care of animals. He learned the value of hard work at a young age, but balanced it out with a mischievous sense of humor that brought much joy and laughter to his family.
Jim served in the Army as a combat medic in Vietnam from 1965-1967. He was a member of the 196th Light Infantry Brigade. Upon returning home, he completed a bachelor’s and master’s degree of Science in Advertising from The University of Illinois at Champaign. He was a proud fan of the Fighting Illini. Jim worked very successfully in the advertising field for many years, becoming the Editor in Chief of the popular agricultural magazine, Agri-Finance. After leaving advertising, Jim worked in an array of industries, creating a versatile and unique resume.
Jim was already a proud father of Jeanna, Trina, Sarah and Chip when he met the love of his life, Noreen, while they both worked at the advertising firm, Rumrill-Hoyt in Rochester, New York. The pair wed on December 23, 1987. Over their 35 years of marriage, they had two children, Rick and Lizzie, lived in four states, and had countless, wonderful adventures.
Jim will be dearly missed and remembered fondly by family and friends as a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He loved Chicago sports, rooting especially for The Cubs baseball and The Bears football teams. Watching the Cubs win the world series in 2016 was a lifelong dream.
He enjoyed watching western movies, especially those starring Clint Eastwood and John Wayne. He loved listening to The Eagles and Jimmy Buffett and was able to see both in concert - a bucket list item. More than anything, Jim enjoyed spending time with his family - especially his six grandchildren.
Jim is survived by his loving wife, Noreen, and children: Jeanna (Mark), Trina (Alex), Sarah (Jim), Chip, Rick (Sarah), and Lizzie (Ethan). He leaves behind his six grandchildren: Jessica, Jack, James, Jackson, Luna, and Logan. He is also survived by his brother, Errol (Doris). He is preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Clinton and Gerald; and sisters, Nell, Jewell, and Camilla.
A private service will be held for the family, followed by a celebration of life to honor the extraordinary man who touched the lives of so many.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hospice & Palliative Care Charlotte Region in his memory. https://www.hpccr.org/donate
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.McEwenPinevilleChapel.com for the Baxter family.
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