James Barnes

James “Jim” K. Barnes Sr. Passed away peacefully on January 24th, 2026, in Prospect Heights, IL, with his wife of 35 years and his youngest daughter by his side. A resident of Elk Grove Village since 2001, Jim was born on April 21st, 1937, in Chicago to the late James J. Barnes and Delores H. Pasturczak. He spent his formative years in Chicago, where he was educated at St. Francis Xavier School, DePaul Academy, and DePaul University. Jim spent many years as an employee of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. before going on to work for 23 years at Christian Brothers Services. He retired from Christian Brothers in 2008 as Managing Director. A lifelong sports fan and an avid hockey and baseball player in his youth, Jim was an enthusiastic supporter of the Cubs, Blackhawks, and Notre Dame. He was also a devout Roman Catholic and a regular parishioner at his local parish in Elk Grove Village. More than anything, Jim was known for his genuine love of people. No matter a person’s walk of life, his warmth was palpable and contagious. He deeply loved his family and was a steadfast supporter of everyone close to his heart. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, James and Delores Barnes, and his brother Eugene (late Marie) Barnes. He is survived by his beloved wife of 35 years, Karen Barnes; his four children, Jim Jr. (Heidi) Barnes, Carol Barnes-Ramirez, Bob (Martha) Barnes, and Taylor (Cody) Williamson; and his eight grandchildren: Brett (Ashley) Barnes, Joe (Anne) Ramirez, Dylan Barnes, Olivia (Ryan) Smith, Alec Barnes, Annabelle Nienhaus, John Nienhaus, and Barbara Barnes. Jim is also survived by two great grandchildren, Bennett Barnes and Oliver Ramirez. A funeral service will be held at Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament (St. Julian Eymard Catholic Church) in Elk Grove Village on Saturday, February 7th, at 11:00 AM. Charitable donations in honor of James K. Barnes Sr. may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL (312-335-8700)

Services provided by DURANTE FUNERAL GROUP, Gary A. Durante Funeral Director.

For info. (866) 847-4100. Condolences and guest book at DuranteFuneralGroup.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of James Barnes, please visit our floral store.