James was born on February 16, 1950 to James and Ellen Rodgers in Foynes, Ireland.
James will be reuniting with many loved ones who predeceased him, including his parents, siblings, Michael Rodgers and Maureen Stathopoulos, daughter, Rana Chiriboga, grandson, Ryan Rodgers, and his beloved partner, Wanda White. He is survived by son, Richard (Janeen) Rodgers Sr., son in law, Frank Chiriboga, and four grandchildren: Michael Chiriboga, Lisa Chiriboga (Kevin Zeckser), Richard (Mandy) Rodgers Jr. and Tyler Rodgers. James was a great grandfather to six and an uncle and friend to many more.
His family came to America by boat and settled as residents of Chicago for most of his life. True to his father’s roots as a sailor, James was a traveler by land and sea from Europe to North America to the Middle East. James worked with Machinery Movers, Riggers, Machinery Erectors Local 136 for many years where he was beloved by all.
James was a generous man who would give his last dollar to make someone smile. From his stories to his stature, James always seemed larger than life and was highly revered as “Big Grandpa.” He had an eclectic group of friends who helped him live adventurously. Once he finally settled down in Wood Dale, he was the proud owner of many birds, including his favorites that watched over him until the very end: Mikey, Emmy and Diamond.
Honest to God, James’ love, charisma and kindness will be remembered and sorely missed.
Visitation for James will be on Friday, May 26, 2023 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Malec & Sons Funeral Home,(Edward A. Tylka, Manager), 6000 North Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60646. Chapel service will be on Friday, May 26, 2023 from 7:00 PM to 7:30 PM, at Malec & Sons Funeral Home, 6000 North Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60646. Interment will be on Saturday, May 27, 2023 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Rosehill Cemetery, 5800 North Ravenswood Ave, Chicago, IL 60660. For Info. call 773-774-4100 or visit www.MalecandSonsFH.com.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.MalecandSonsFH.com for the Rodgers family.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.17