James L. Mossman

On May 20, 2013, James Lester Mossman went home to be with the Lord. He was Jimmy to his wife, Les to his mom and sister, and just Jim to everyone else. Born April 21st, 1918, he started life with nothing, in a home with an absent father and a mother (Mamie) struggling to keep her little family together. Somehow, in spite of that, he figured out how to love my mother, Mary (Horton) Mossman for 69 years, build a home, and raise three daughters, Kathy (Lenny) Prisciandaro, Barb (Andy) Zumfelde, Mary Lou (Bob) Sender, and one son, John (Maureen) Mossman. He figured out how to be a great dad and taught his family more than can possibly be listed here. In addition he was blessed with 10 grandchildren and 8 great grand children. In later years when his father (Earl) came back around, Jim graciously forgave him and embraced him as father and grandfather. At 95, he was preceded in death by both of his parents and step parents, his wife Mary, his sister Genevieve, and nearly all of his life-long friends of which there were many.

Jim lived most of his life in and around Chicago. After serving in the Navy in WW II, he went to work as a machinist and built a career in manufacturing, working his way up through the ranks to middle management. He enjoyed a large circle of friends and acquaintances. Jim and Mary retired in 1983, wintering in Florida and traveling to spend time with family in the summers. His last years were spent comfortably at Spring Meadows Assisted Living in Naperville, IL where he served on resident committees and as a good will ambassador.

Jim loved to work with his hands and was an accomplished tinkerer. Nothing made him happier than a list of things to repair when he came for a visit. He left his mark on the homes of all of his children in the things he made or repaired. Jim also loved America and saw most of it behind a steering wheel pulling a camper of some sort. It was important to him to show his children as much of America as he could.

The only strangers in Jim’s life were people he had not met yet. He could talk with anyone and could learn a person’s life story while pumping gas. He left everyone and everything better for having been with him. He lived all things in moderation - including moderation! He is probably oiling the hinges on the gates to heaven, just to make sure they don't squeak or wear out. In his last few years he often said how blessed he was. He said "I never had a great job, but I always had one. I didn't have everything I always wanted, but I had everything I always needed. I had a loving wife and good kids. All in all, I have had a far better life than I ever dreamed of." Oh, that we might all live 95 years and feel that way about our lives. Because of whom he was and how he lived, he will live on in the legacy of his family.

In lieu of flowers the family is asking for donations to Seasons Hospice & Palliative Care in memory of James. Donations can be paid online at Seasonsfoundation.org or by mail to 6880 N Frontage Road, Suite 100, Burr Ridge, Illinois 60527-7825.