James W. Nelson Sr.

James W. Nelson Sr passed away Wednesday, July 12, 2023, at the age of 79. Jim is the beloved husband of Jeannine Elaine (Rupcich). Loving father to son, James W. Nelson Jr and daughter, Julie Ann Nelson. Cherished grandfather of Robert John Meagher IV.

Jim graduated from Wheaton Community High School in 1961. He then joined the Army on his eighteenth birthday. While learning to be a High-Speed Morse Code Operator during the height of the Cold War and the beginning of Vietnam, he was also afforded the opportunity to play baseball in the Army. The Nancy “Dodgers” ended up winning the European Championship two years in a row. One article mentions him striking out 17 batters in a game. Over the course of his baseball playing days, he ended up throwing too many No Hitters to remember, even losing a couple.

Jim had a long career in the banking industry. Working for Steel City National Bank, Mid Town Bank and Trust and retired from BMO Harris in Winnetka as the Senior Commercial Lender after 21 years. Being a banker also meant he was able to play a lot of golf. He’s been lucky enough to sink four holes in one, one of them on a par 4 with his father.

If you knew him, you remember a gregarious, smart, considerate human being. Always there for his immediate and extended family. His memory will forever be cherished.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 8, 2023 from 9:00 AM until 1:00 PM with a service at 12:00 PM at Chapel Hill Gardens West Funeral Home, 17W201 Roosevelt Road, Oakbrook Terrace. For more information please call (630) 941-5860.

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Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ChapelHillGardensWest.com for the Nelson family.