Vincenzo "Jim" Marco Mundo

Vincenzo "Jim" Mundo, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, craftsman, businessman, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 10, 2026, in Erie, Colorado, at the age of 86.

Jim was born on October 22, 1939, in Alessandria del Carretto, Calabria, Italy, to Francesco Mundo and Caterina Mundo (née Napoli). Like so many of his generation, he came to America seeking opportunity and a better life. On May 15, 1956, at the age of 16, he arrived in the United States aboard the Castel Felice, settling with his family in Chicago's Roseland neighborhood. Through hard work, determination, and a willingness to learn, he built a life that embodied the American dream.

While working at Sherwin-Williams in Chicago, Jim met the love of his life, Kathryn Steffes, through her brother-in-law, Daniel. Their first meeting sparked a partnership that would last more than six decades. Jim and Kathy were married on October 13, 1962, beginning a journey filled with family, friendship, and entrepreneurship.

After learning the carpentry and construction trades, Jim founded Mundo Construction in Frankfort, Illinois. Together, Jim and Kathy built not only a successful business but also countless homes throughout Chicago's south suburbs. Jim took enormous pride in his work, treating every home as if he were building it for his own family. Along the way, many customers became lifelong friends, and many fellow tradesmen became like family. His reputation for quality workmanship, honesty, and a firm handshake made him a well-known and respected figure throughout Frankfort and the surrounding communities. He was also a proud and active member of the Frankfort Lions Club for many years.

In 2001, Jim and Kathy sold the business and retired to Southwest Florida, enjoying life in Marco Island and Fort Myers. Retirement, however, never slowed Jim down. He remained happiest when fishing, boating, building, fixing, improving, or creating something with his hands.

In 2020, Jim and Kathy moved to Erie, Colorado, where they made their home with their son Dave and daughter-in-law Dena. Even in his later years, Jim's workshop remained busy. He crafted birdhouses and bird feeders that now decorate the yards of neighbors, friends, and family throughout Colorado. Every project carried his signature attention to detail and reflected the joy he found in making things that would last.

Jim also loved bowling and spent decades competing in leagues wherever he lived, even bowling the last three summers alongside Kathy, Dave, and Dena.

Above all else, Jim was devoted to his family. He was a loving husband, a proud father, an adoring grandfather and great-grandfather, and a treasured uncle to countless nieces and nephews who knew him affectionately as "Uncle Jimmy." Family gatherings were often made brighter by his quick wit, endless jokes, and ability to make people laugh.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 64 years, Kathryn Mundo; his sons Frank Mundo, Jim Mundo (Brandy), and Dave Mundo (Dena); his grandchildren Jacob Mundo (Jasmine), Nick Mundo (Sarah), Nathan Mundo, Cooper Mundo, and Elyse Mundo; and his great-grandchildren Roman and JP. He is also survived by his sister Florence and by many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Francesco and Caterina Mundo; his brothers Luke and Mark; and his sisters Mary, Rose, and Angie.

Jim's life story was one of courage, hard work, generosity, and love. From a small village in southern Italy to the neighborhoods of Chicago, the communities of Florida, and finally Colorado, he built more than homes—he built friendships, memories, and a legacy that will endure for generations.

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.