James Plese

J. JAMES "JIM" PLESE SR.

Age 85 of Wilmington, passed away peacefully Friday, November 30, 2007 surrounded by his loving family.

Jim was born in Wilmington on May 12, 1922 to the late John J. and Margaret (Berta) Plese on the farm his family established in 1900.

Jim was a graduate of Braidwood High School and attended the University of Illinois where he played basketball and football. He later played on a Minor League Baseball team, and was also a Golden Glove boxer. He greatly enjoyed hunting, fishing and the outdoors. Jim's two greatest loves in life were his family and his farming.

Jim is survived by his ten children: John (Jackie) Plese of Wilmington, Suzy (Larry) Rhodes of Carlinville, Jim (Debbie) Plese of Wilmington, Jay Plese of Wilmington, Joe (Jane) Plese of Wilmington, Jacque of Wilmington, Venita (Greg) Dennis of Wilmington, Janelle (Jim) Ganz of Wilmington, Jacquelyn (Bob) Rink of Wilmington and Jina (Al) Ward of Wilmington; ten Grandchildren, six Great Grandchildren, four sisters: Lucille (Joe) DeGuile of Coal City, Marilyn (James, deceased) Tyler of Elwood, Madonna (Jack) Orr of Verona and Margaret (Al) Paoletti of Peoria; one brother Dean (Judy) Plese of Wilmington and sister-in-law Ceil Plese of Freeport.

Jim is preceded in death by his parents, beloved wife of 51 years Donita in 2003, and brother Leo Plese.

Visitation will be Monday, December 3, 2007 from 4-9PM at St. Rose Catholic Church, 624 South Kankakee Street in Wilmington. Funeral services will follow on Tuesday December 4th at 11AM in St. Rose Catholic Church where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated with Rev. Steve Bondi and Deacon Don Dyer officiating.

Interment will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Wilmington.

Preferred memorials as gifts in Jim's memory to the Kuzma Care Cottage, St. Rose School or St. Rose Catholic are greatly appreciated.

Friends may sign the online guest book by logging onto: www.ReevesFuneral.com Funeral services and arrangements are under the direction of Reeves Funeral Home in Wilmington. (815/476-7621)