James Michael Parchuta

James Michael Parchuta, 1943-2021, (aka: Jim, Jimmy, Jimbo, Shooter), passed away December 14, 2021. Jim is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Patricia; his two amazing daughters, Tanya and Sara; his eldest sister Joyce; and beloved nephews: Jim, Scott and Derek. He was preceded in death by his sister, Barbara and his nephew, Michael. Trying to fit such a full life into one obituary is difficult, but here’s a valid attempt…

Jim grew up in Morton Grove, IL in a home of tough love and high expectations. In those early years he developed friendships that he cherished, that would last a lifetime (hoping to see some of those great stories posted below 😉). Jim graduated high school, then the naval academy. After the Navy he attended trade school and developed a life-long career as a Chicago Journeyman in the Plumbers Union Local 130. He had an incredible work ethic and was a proud Union member that raised a proud union household.

After getting married in 1971, Jim and Pat bought a house in Skokie where they raised their family. The family still lives there today.

Jim loved to have a good time. It was not unusual for him to be the first one there and the last to leave. Always up for good stories, jokes, and time with friends and family. Those times were spent at home around the pool table, during super bowl parties, the Morton Grove Moose Lodge, Chain O’ Lakes, Northern Wisconsin, a local watering hole after work, out to lunch, dinner, or at friends’ and family’s homes.

Jim was also a very devout Catholic and never missed mass. His prayer book was used so often he had to duct tape it to keep it together. Sundays after church very often included a drive through the country and a new restaurant or supper club for dinner. He valued family. He always provided for his family and was always there to help in any way that he knew how. He was close with his mother, sisters, and his nephews. His sister Barbara’s sons, were the sons he never had. He was close with his brothers-in-law and frequently spent time with them fishing or just hanging out.

He was a fisherman. Not just any fisherman. A Musky fisherman. He escaped to Northern Wisconsin as often as he could and always fished in the annual Musky tournament. Family summer vacations were also spent up north with great friends and family. Maybe it was being on the water he really loved. Before getting the fishing boat, many summers were spent on the Chain O’ Lakes in his boat, “Patty Cake” with friends and family making memories to last a lifetime (also looking for some good stories here 😉).

Jim may have not appreciated the squirrels getting into his garbage cans, but he loved his cats. His first cat, Buttons (even though she stole chicken off his plate) was daddy’s girl. She started his love of cats and many followed that he cherished and loved.

Jim enjoyed sports from the comfort of his couch or a padded barstool. Getting frustrated at the Bears or White Sox “fine performance” was not unusual. A Chicago fan through & through. He spent his entire career working in the many different neighborhoods of Chicago and the North Shore.

He taught us the importance of honesty, hard work, having fun, when to be serious and when to have a sense of humor, how to support your family through anything, and how to keep your vehicle maintained to a T (man, he loved his truck). Remember Jimbo as he was throughout the years, as your friend, your uncle, your brother, your cousin, your brother-in-law, your Dad, your Husband… as the great man he was. Cheers to a full life! You are loved and will be greatly missed.

A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to the Alzheimer’s Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave., Fl. 17, Chicago, IL 60601 or at https://www.alz.org/ would be appreciated.