James Edward Pfeiffer

James Edward Pfeiffer, cherished husband to Donna Lasko for 34 years, passed away peacefully on February 26, 2026, in Bellevue, Florida. He was lovingly surrounded by his family at the time of his passing, following an eight-year journey with Alzheimer’s disease.

Early Life and Military Service

Jim was born on June 16, 1947, in Chicago. He attended DePaul Academy, served as a paratrooper with the 82nd Airborne Division, and played semi-pro football for the Chicago Gladiators. He lived in Chicago before moving to The Villages, Florida, with Donna in 2013.

Family and Fatherhood

Jim was the quintessential “Girl-Dad,” having four daughters with his first wife, Mary Ann (nee Nolan). He loved supporting them at their myriad of events and taking them camping with the Indian Princesses, where they shared unforgettable moments around the campfire. As a grandfather to ten grandchildren, he was well known for making everyone laugh with his silly dad jokes and constant playful antics.

Professional Life

Jim spent much of his career as a lithographer, a role he held until September 2001. After leaving the field, he continued to demonstrate his strong work ethic and easygoing personality by working with several well-known companies, including Sears, Holiday Inn, and Menards. Jim also took on the meaningful responsibility of driving a school bus for children with disabilities, offering care and support to those in need. In his final chapter, he served as a Recreation Assistant at Seabreeze Recreation Center in The Villages, where he was truly in his element. Surrounded by sports, laughter, and the camaraderie he cherished, Jim found fulfillment in creating a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere for everyone around him.

Personal Life and Passions

Jim discovered his love for downhill skiing while participating in the Oak Park Ski Club, where he also met Donna. Their shared enthusiasm for adventure led to 34 years of joyful companionship, filled with memorable experiences together. Jim’s support for Chicago sports teams was unwavering, though he could occasionally be persuaded to cheer for the Ducks or Penguins. He actively participated in a variety of recreational activities, including broomball, floor hockey, softball, biking, and boating on Lake Michigan with his vessel  “Wicket Diversion.”  His creativity was recognized twice, with “Best Overall” honors at Chicago’s Venetian Night for his innovative entries. 

Surviving Family

Jim is survived by his loving wife, Donna; his daughters Julie Ann (Richard) Gaston of Sunrise Beach, Missouri; Margaret (Corey) Schultz of Fox River Grove, Illinois; Jaime Lynn (Tim) Innis of Lake in the Hills, Illinois; and Maureen (Chris) Kunitz of Hinsdale, Illinois; and their mother, Mary Ann (née Nolan). He is also survived by his treasured grandchildren: Alexa, Jack, and Paige Certa; Mason and Nixon Schultz; Zachary, Payton, and Aubrey Kunitz; and Katherine Innis.

He is further survived by his brother J.T. (Diane) Pfeiffer; sister-in-law Dianne Pfeiffer; brother-in-law Scott (Melissa) Lasko; sister-in-law Carol (Steve) Jarecki; and many nieces and nephews.

Preceded in Death

He was preceded in death by his parents, Margaret and John Pfeiffer, Sr.; his brothers William, Patrick, and Charles Pfeiffer; his sister-in-law Ginger Pfeiffer; and his precious granddaughter, Caroline Innis.

A Celebration of Life will be held on March 14, 2026,  in  Illinois. A Celebration of Life in The Villages, Florida, will take place on Saturday, April 11, 2026 from 11:00AM to 3:00PM at Dignity Memorial Life Celebration Center, 7134 Powell Road Wildwood, FL. A prayer service will begin at 11:30 AM followed by Military Honors. Committal will be held on Monday, April 13, 11:00 AM at Florida National Cemetery,6502 SW 102nd Ave, Bushnell, FL.

His story doesn’t end here — it lives on in every laugh, every ballgame, and every summer breeze off the water.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to:

MY TIME FOR FREE TIME

Checks may be made out to Hope Lutheran Church 250 Avenida Los Angelos The Villages FL, 32162; Memo: My Time for Free Time; Jim Pfeiffer Memorial or to Sonrise Respite Ministry at Lake Deaton United Methodist Church, 6500 Weslyan Way Wildwood, FL.