Born February 6, 1940 in Monticello to Ted Joe and Maude Elaine (Coleman) Auer, he married Patricia Ann Park on February 17, 1980 in Peoria. She died on June 29, 2014. He was also preceded in death by his parents.
Surviving are two daughters, Trina (Kevin Jolliff) North of Peoria and Lisa (Kenny McGlothlin) Lynch of Pekin; four grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; one sister, Barbara (James) Forbes of Decatur and his adopted son, Lyndon (Leann) Bright of Pekin.
Jim owned and operated Auer Auto Haus for over 10 years in Pekin. He was also a mechanic for 40 years retiring in 2002.
In his free time, Jim was a philatelist and also enjoyed collecting irons and coffee grinders. He loved to cruise in his convertible. He also enjoyed antiquing with his wife, Patty.
A recipient of the Eagle Scout Award, Jim had a jovial presence and knew how to make people smile. He will be remembered for laughter and sense of humor.
Jim was a member of the Liberty Baptist Church in Pekin.
His funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday, December 21, 2022 at Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin. Pastor Ron Jansen will officiate. Visitation will be an hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Burial will be 2:30 p.m. Wednesday at Hammond Cemetery in Hammond. Pastor John Vaughn will perform the committal service.
Memorial contributions may be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children, P.O. Box 1525, Ranson, West Virginia 25438.
To express condolences online, visit www.preston-hanley.com
