James P. Sczepaniak

James Paul Sczepaniak, age 78, passed away peacefully Sunday, November 9, 2014 at Presence Saint Joseph Medical Center following complications from prostate cancer. Born December 1, 1935 in Joliet to the late Stanley and Rose (nee Petan), he was a lifetime resident. James graduated from St. Joseph Catholic Grade School, Joliet Township High School Class of 1953 and Joliet Junior College. Jim received a bachelor's degree from Lewis University and a master's degree from Northern Illinois University. He retired after 33 years teaching social studies at Lockport Township High School Dist. #205 and Valley View School Dist. #365-U (Romeoville High School).

Jim served in the U.S. Army. He took great pride in his civic involvement and proudly served on the Joliet Public Library Board of Trustees for more than 30 years, most recently as President of the Board. Active member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Joliet, the Holy Name Society of St. Joseph Church, the St. Joseph Church Seniors, Oakwood Estates Homeowners Association, and the Illinois Retired Teachers Association.

Beloved husband of 5 years to Frances H. Naal Sczepaniak (nee Tures); loving brother of Lois M. Geary; brother-in-law of James (Joann) Gordon of Springfield, VA; dear uncle of Kim Ann (Wayne) Meirhofer and Steven P. (Shirley Boatman) Geary. Survived by Fran's children, Meg (Dale) Underwood Jr., John (Micki) Naal and Colette Naal. Many dear nieces, nephews, cousins, godchildren, beloved students and friends also survive.

Preceded in death by his first wife of 44 years, Mary Clare (nee Gordon) in 2007; and his parents, Stanley and Rose (nee Petan).

Jim was very devoted to his hobbies of stamp and coin collecting. He also greatly enjoyed taking pictures and sending them on to his many relatives, friends and acquaintances.

The family wishes to express their sincere thank you to the doctors, nurses and staff at both Presence St. Joseph Medical Center and Our Lady of Angels Retirement Home for the excellent care provided to Jim.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Jim's name to Lewis University, University of St. Francis or Our Lady of Angels Retirement Home would be greatly appreciated.

A Celebration of James' life will begin on Thursday, November 13, 2014 with prayers in the funeral home chapel at 9:20 a.m. then driving in procession to St. Joseph Catholic Church in Joliet for a Mass of Christian Burial to be held at 10:00 a.m. Interment to follow at St. Joseph Cemetery. Visitation will be Wednesday, November 12, 2014 at Tezak Funeral Home, 1211 Plainfield Rd, Joliet, IL 60435 from 3-7 p.m. St. Joseph Holy Name Society will conduct a Prayer Service at 4:30 p.m.