James E. Folliard

We are saddened to announce the passing of James Edward Folliard, who died from complications of COVID 19 on July 31st. He was 98 and lived a long, active and happy life with a strong sense of optimism that continued until he took his final breath.  

At the age of 89, Jim completed his memoirs.  They are filled with reflections of his 1930s (depression era) childhood on Chicago's south side (St Dorothy's parish) and the lifelong bonds he developed with his siblings and cousins.  They all remained very close throughout their lives.  

Jim was one of the quickly dwindling number of surviving veterans from World War II.  In Nov 1942, the draft age was lowered to 18.  Jim was 18 and wanted to be in the Army.  He enlisted and told his parents later.  Jim was assigned to the Military Police and eventually G2 (Intelligence and Security.)   Jim remained state-side until the end of the war in 1945.   He was 21 when he was discharged having served 3+ years.  Jim later joined his local American Legion and served as Post Commander.   Jim was proud of all his service and always supported the military.

In the Army, Jim received specialized training in Radio Communications and learned to install audio systems that could communicate between areas on the battlefield.   Along with radio, Jim developed a love of electronics.  His career path led him to become a Local 134 electrician and he was certified as an Electronic Technician.   For many years Jim worked as a radio and electronics repairman.

Jim was also a Ham Radio hobbyist and could often be found in his basement trying to reach other Ham Radio enthusiasts around the world.  His hobbies also included repair of the electronics in radios, TVs, stereos, and anything with a circuit board.

In 1967, Jim and his wife Ann bought a house in Oak Lawn (St Linus parish) where they raised their 5 kids.   This was Jim's dream and he lived it fully being a devoted husband and involved parent who was there for sports and projects and many fun adventures.  Jim lived in the house until his passing.

Jim was predeceased by the love of his life, wife Ann (Gansinger) and five siblings Katherine (Russell Rasmussen), Winifred (Rob Halligan), Veronica Folliard, Patrick (Elizabeth) Folliard, and Mary Eleanor (Raymond Scannell & Joseph Zunic.)   He is survived by his children who are his 5 biggest fans: Sharon Folliard (Lance Driskill), Jim (Laura) Folliard, Julie Folliard, Mike Folliard (Christina Klintworth), Sandy Folliard, and his seven cherished grandchildren who brought such joy to his life. “Uncle Jimmy” is also survived by 23 nieces and nephews and their children whom he loved dearly. 

In lieu of flowers, Jim’s legacy would be served by donations to The American Legion, a veteran’s service organization www.legion.org

To honor Jim’s memory, a celebration of his life will be held on Monday August 15th. There will be a visitation at 9:30am until the time of a funeral mass to be held at 10:30am at St John Fisher Catholic Church, 10200 S Washtenaw, Chicago, IL 60655. All attendees are required to wear masks. 

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Thompson & Kuenster Funeral Home 5570 95th Street, Oak Lawn, IL 60453. Phone(708) 425-0500  Website www.ThompsonKuensterFuneralHome.com