James Robert Rakers

Born in 1943, in Quincy, Illinois, to Louis and Catherine Rakers, Jim was a "larger than life" presence characterized by a quiet strength and an unwavering, supportive spirit.

His deep and abiding faith was the cornerstone of his life. It guided his every action and led him to the greatest blessing of his journey: his wife, Helen Patricia, “Pat”. The two met at church while living in Honolulu, Hawaii, beginning a beautiful life-long partnership lasting 55 years rooted in their shared devotion. Following their time in Hawaii, Jim and Helen moved to Arizona, where they spent the last 46 years building a life filled with family and community. Jim dedicated 25 years of his career to Honeywell before retiring to enjoy life in Sun City, where he and Pat took great joy in hosting many cherished family holiday dinners.

A gifted athlete, Jim had many accomplishments including being inducted into the Quincy Notre Dame Hall of Fame in 1992. For college, Jim took his talents to the University of Notre Dame where he was a proud player for the Fighting Irish while studying finance. Throughout his life, Jim was the person people turned to for a helping hand or a word of wisdom. He was a dedicated member of the Knights of Columbus and deeply involved in his community, always embodying a kind, gentle, and giving spirit.

At home, he was known for his "green thumb," his love of fishing, and his passion for cheering on all Notre Dame sports. Above all, he was a man of integrity who provided a quiet, powerful presence for his family.

Preceded in death by his parents and brother Richard Rakers, Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Pat; his children, James D. Rakers (Terry) and Cathy Rakers Weise (David); and his cherished grandchildren: Joaquin, Harrison, James, John, Helen, Maria, and Madeline. He is also survived by his brother, Paul Rakers; sister, Mary Humphrey; sister-in-law, Alice Rakers; and many wonderful nieces, nephews, cousins, classmates, and friends.

A funeral mass will be held in honor of Jim at Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Scottsdale, Arizona, on May 2, 2026, at 10:00 am. Following the service, he will be laid to rest at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to one of the following organizations close to Jim’s heart:

• Society of St. Vincent de Paul

• St. Joseph the Worker

• Notre Dame Alumni Association