James F. Markelz

James F. Markelz, age 76, of Joliet, died peacefully after a courageous battle with cancer on Wednesday, July 15, 2009, surrounded by family at home.

Born January 29, 1933, a lifelong resident of Joliet, IL, he was the third son of Anton J. and Angela B. Markelz. He was a 1947 graduate of St. Raymond Grade School and a 1951 graduate of Joliet Township High School. He attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and then served his country in the Army from 1952-1954, working as a chaplain"s assistant in Germany during the Korean War.

He married Marge Hammel, his wife of 54 years, in 1955. Jim worked for his father at The Book Shop, and later was President of Markelz Office Products until he retired in 1995.

Survivors include his wife, Marge, and children, Janet Markelz of Minooka, IL, Greg (Tami) Markelz of Plainfield, IL, Nancy (Steve) Gatens of Dallas, TX, Carl Markelz, O.Carm of Chicago, IL, Paul Markelz of Crystal Lake, IL, Aimee (Dave) Tracy of Chicago, IL, and grandchildren, Molly O"Sullivan, Anthony (Jessica) and Lauren Markelz, Sarah and Marty Gatens, Christopher and Alexander Markelz, Kathryn and Mary Margaret Tracy; his brother, Dr. Robert (Evelyn) Markelz and sister, Jean (Bill) Mammosser; and numerous nieces and nephews. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Frederick ""Jack"" Markelz, and his granddaughter, Madeline Markelz.

Jim was an active leader in the Joliet community, most notably with his work for the Joliet Area Community Hospice, St. Paul the Apostle Parish and School, Joliet Catholic High School and St. Francis Academy. Jim loved music, playing the saxophone in college and later the organ, and was an active member of the choir at St. Paul"s for over 30 years. After retirement, Jim composed dozens of wonderful songs for children and for reflection. Several of his songs have been produced and distributed for so many to enjoy. He was also an avid Chicago Blackhawks fan.

Jim was a devoted husband and dedicated father and grandfather, tirelessly helping in any business or personal venture. Jim will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate memorial gifts to the Joliet Area Community Hospice.

Tezak's Home to Celebrate Life 1211 Plainfield Rd. Joliet, IL. (815) 722-0524 www.tezakfuneralhome.com From where services will be held on Monday, July 20, 2009 at 10:00 AM to St. Paul the Apostle Church for a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 AM. Interment will be at St. John Cemetery. Visitation will be on Sunday from 2-7 PM.