James "Jim" D. Eklund, Sr., 89, a lifelong resident of Sycamore, passed away peacefully at home at the age of 89, surrounded by his wife of 55 years, Edith. Born on St. Patrick's Day 1937 on his mother's kitchen table.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Vivian (nee Beckler) and Dewey Eklund, his sister, Betty Tull, and his in-laws, Edward and Erna Eickhof.

A dedicated educator, Jim's career began at the Federated Church of Sycamore teaching Sunday School and Bible school before he earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Northern Illinois University in 1959. He spent 10 years teaching at Saints Peter & Paul in Virgil, followed by 34 years in Burlington District #301. Even in retirement, Jim continued to serve as a librarian and teacher at St. Mary's of Sycamore and a substitute teacher for Sycamore public schools. Throughout his career, he was a tireless advocate for both students and colleagues, holding leadership positions in Phi Delta Kappa,Central Education Association,and National Education Association.

After his in-laws passed away, Jim and Edie moved into the residence at Eickhof Nursery east of Sycamore. Jim spent endless hours doing yardwork, without complaint, to honor his father-in-law's legacy. On nice days, he could be found walking his dogs, picking up sticks,raking leaves and tending to his gardens. Together with his wife, Jim transformed a house into a home, the place he was happiest.

A gifted storyteller, Jim enjoyed entertaining others with tales of his youth and the early years with Edie and their families. There is comfort knowing his witty sense of humor never left him.

Most importantly, Jim was a devoted father to Jamey (Evgueni Minev) and James Jr. (Michelle),and a loving grandfather to Ella, Edward, Vivian, Claire,and Theodore.He found great joy in his family,his dogs,the Salem Pinocle Club, and socializing with friends. The Eklund family is deeply grateful for the compassionate care Jim received from the Northern Illinois Hospice Team, Northwest Community Hospital and the NW Medicine- Kishwaukee Hospital.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, April 18th from 9:30-11:00 AM at the Salem Lutheran Church, 1145 DeKalb Ave., Sycamore, IL.  His funeral service will begin at 11:00 AM.

Burial will follow at the Elmwood Cemetery in Sycamore.  A luncheon will follow the burial at the Salem Lutheran Church.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Northwest Community Hospital Foundation or the Sycamore Fire Department in care of the Butala Funeral Home, 1405 DeKalb Ave., Sycamore, IL. 60178.

To sign the online guest book, go to Butala Funeral Homes & Crematory : Sycamore, Illinois (IL)