James J Muldowney

surrounded by loving family after a brief battle with cancer. Born on May 3, 1933, in Chicago, Jim was a proud first-generation Irish American whose life was defined by faith, family, patriotism, generosity, and fierce friendship.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 50 years, Clare (née Sexton) Muldowney, his father and mother, Patrick and Mary (Carabine) and his brothers, Bernard, Patrick and Jack, his daughter, Margaret Mary. James is survived by his brother Frank and sister Mary (Mitoraj) and his 4 children, 11 grandchildren and 6, soon to be 7, great grandchildren. He was the cherished father of Mary Jarratt (Ben) of McLean, Virginia; Michael P. Muldowney (Daniela) of Dover, Massachusetts; Maureen Pedersen (Craig) of Crystal Lake, Illinois; and Meg Muldowney of Grayslake, Illinois. “Papa” will be lovingly remembered by his grandchildren: Brigid (Zach Spradlin), Caitlin (Connor Brady), and Patrick (Tatum) Quinn ; Colin Jarratt; Michael J, Patrick, and Liam Muldowney; Sheamus and Ryan Ronayne; Connor Orth; Ashley (Kevin Schwartz); and by his great-grandchildren: Owen, Avery, and Graham Schwartz; and Wynn, Grace, and Rory Brady.

Jim was a devoted father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, brother, and friend—always eager to provide a helping hand, or a word of sage advice to those who needed it. Affectionately called “Papa” by his grandchildren and “Great Papa” by his great-grandchildren, his warmth, sharp Irish whit, infectious sense of humor, devotion to family and his unconditional love touched and inspired everyone he encountered.

Jim was a loyal and lifelong friend to many—including his grammar school classmates, for whom Jim never missed a wedding, birthday, anniversary or other reason to celebrate. These parties culminated in their 50th wedding anniversary, celebrated at Lake Lawn Lodge where the family had many fond memories.

A proud veteran of the United States Army during the Korean War (1953–1955), Jim deeply loved his country and what it stood for – he personified the American dream. As the son of Irish immigrants who came to Chicago seeking a better life for future generations, he honored their legacy and sacrifice through a life of hard work, faith, and service to others.

Jim was a gifted civil engineer, beginning his career in the engineering department at Western Electric and later working for the City of Chicago Water Distribution Division. He went on to become owner and President of Fletcher Engineering Company from 1969 to 1998 and served as the City Engineer for the City of Rolling Meadows during that same period

Guided by his devotion to his faith, Jim remained a committed supporter of Catholic charities throughout his life. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory can be made to:

• Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Wheaton, IL

• Discalced Carmelites, Des Plaines, IL

• Fisher House Foundation, Hines IL

A visitation for James will be held Thursday, May 15, 2025 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Marsh Funeral Home, 305 N Cemetery Rd, Gurnee, IL. A funeral mass will occur Friday, May 16, 2025 at 10:15 AM at St. Gilbert Catholic Church, 301 E Belvidere Rd, Grayslake, IL. Interment at All Saints Cemetery, 700 N River Rd, Des Plaines, IL.

“Death leaves a heartache no one can heal; love leaves a memory no one can steal.”