Obituary of James A. Doppke

James “Jim” A. Doppke, 88, of Libertyville, IL, passed away on December 3, 2023. Jim was born in Chicago to Alfred Albert Doppke and Bernice Doppke, née Clark. He is survived by his beloved wife Ann “Nancy”, née O’Toole, and his two sons James A. Doppke, Jr. (Erin O’Neill), and John C. Doppke (Aaron Nee). Also surviving are grandchildren Jack E., Lauren A., and Patrick J. Doppke. Jim will also be missed by his nieces Beth Newell and Lynn Torning, daughters of his late brother, Thomas; by his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Don and Betty O’Toole; and by his niece Kit O’Toole.

Jim graduated from DePaul Academy in 1953, and he earned a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Notre Dame in 1957, as well as Master’s and PhD degrees from the University of Chicago. He taught English literature and composition at undergraduate and graduate levels in universities in the Chicago area.

After several years of teaching, Jim pursued a career in Higher Education Administration that culminated in his service as President of the University of St. Francis in Joliet from 1995 to 2002. He particularly sought to extend educational opportunities to career professionals as well as traditionally-aged students. At USF, he expanded online course offerings, spearheaded USF’s acquisition of St. Joseph College of Nursing, and guided USF’s transition from a college to a university.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Big Shoulders Fund, bigshouldersfund.org, or Misericordia misericordia.com.

Mass will be celebrated at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Libertyville on December 20 at 10:30 AM. Interment will be private. For additional information, please visit www.libertyvillefuneralhome.com