James J. Gasparin

James was born November 7, 1954, in Springfield, the son of Florian Eugene and Geraldine Mildred Durbin Gasparin.

A Man Who Lived Many Lives in One.

Jim, larger than life, was a man who has done it all. A farmer, cook, IT tech, actor, stuntman, and a man who started a business called “Anything for Money,” he found no job too small. His creativity compelled him to co-author a series of novels titled “Saga of the Wolf.”

Jim was known by family, friends, and even strangers to be a generous man with a kind heart, but also a strong man who would stand against injustice. He was active in the community as Commander of the Sons of the American Legion, Squadron 32, whether it was collecting money for State Fair parking, or cooking food for the monthly chicken fries. He always did what was asked of him with humor and kindness.

As a father and grandfather, Jim loved spending time with his many grandsons, and his honorary daughter, Lydia. He enjoyed teaching the children about gardening, music, and general life skills. Whether in the kitchen preserving food grown in his garden or working with his co-author on his lifetime love of writing, he faced each challenge with enthusiasm and a lust for life.

In his early years, Jim was a playwright, director, and thespian. He spent many hours doing improv with the group, Positively Fifth Street, and working as a stuntman taking falls for the Wild West Show where he enjoyed playing the villain.

Jim will be missed by his children, his grandchildren, his many friends, and the community at large. As a giant of a man, his passing leaves a massive hole in all our hearts.

He was preceded in death by his parents; grandson, Jeremiah James Williams; and brother, Floyd Eugene Gasparin.

James is survived by his son, Jeremiah Adrian (Gina) Gasparin of Lincoln, IL; daughter, Emily Sue (Robert Brown) Gasparin of Springfield; honorary daughter, Lydia Raine Marx; grandchildren, Christopher James Gasparin, Matthew Thomas Gasparin, Andrew Joseph Gasparin, and Isaiah Mykel Gasparin; step-grandson, Dundre Brown; sister, Antoinette “Toni” Marie (James) Gasparin-Marx of Springfield; several nieces, nephews, and cousins; and co-author, niece and best friend, Alaina Marx.

Cremation was provided by Butler Funeral Home-Springfield prior to ceremonies.

Memorial Ceremony and Gathering: 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 16, 2022, at Butler Funeral Home-Springfield, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield, IL with friend and minister, Kenneth McDaniel officiating. A memorial gathering will follow the ceremony until 5:00 p.m. Sangamon County will hold a Brown walk-thru from 2:45 until 3:00 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Legion Post #32, 1120 Sangamon Ave., Springfield, IL 62702.