Obituary of James J. Penney

James J. Penney, 80, of Wauconda, Illinois passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 2, 2023.

Jim was born April 25th, 1943 in Chicago, Illinois to the late Marion (Phelan) and James Joseph Penney.

He graduated from Loyola Academy, Wilmette, Illinois and did his graduate and undergraduate studies at Xavier University, Cincinnati, Ohio.

Jim enriched lives with humor, wisdom, affection and his infinite kindness.  Adored by his family, he deeply enjoyed spending time with them at every chance. There were no strangers in Jim’s world.  He had a way of turning new acquaintances into dear friends, and he cherished these relationships.

Jim, a sports fan, considered himself lucky to have lived such a wonderful life. A basketball trick-shot legend and a die-hard Cubs fan, Jim felt grateful to finally see the Cubs win the World Series in 2016. 

Jim is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Eileen and his loving children and their spouses: Katie Penney & Collin Harvey, Kelly & Daniel Pyke, Kerry and Jeramie Driessen. He is also survived by his grandchildren Caitlyn, Taylor, & Aiden Pyke and Molly Driessen. Also, his sister Betty Rose (Jim) McCabe and many nieces and nephews. James was preceded in death by his sister Mary Jane Hoogheem. 

Visitation for James will take place Thursday, November 9, 2023 from 4pm-8pm at McMurrough Funeral Chapel, 101 Park Place, Libertyville, IL, 60048. Funeral Mass Friday, November 10, 2023 will begin promptly at 10am at St. Mary of the Annunciation Catholic Church, 22333 W. Erhart Road, Mundelein, IL, 60060. Interment to follow at St. Mary Catholic Cemetery, 

In Lieu of flowers, donations may be made in James' name to the Alzheimer’s Association. www.alz.org