COUNCIL #731 - WAUKEGAN COUNCIL #731 REMEMBERS |
Raised in North Chicago by his parents John and Mary (Mitzy), Stanczak. He leaves his wife, Mary Kay (Ferkin), daughter Michelle (Mike), Pederson and son James J. (JJ), (Kelly Shields). Proud Grandpa to Samantha and Sydney Pederson and Madelyn Stanczak. He is survived by his brother John and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and countless friends made along his way. Jim's lifetime accomplishments were plenty. He retired from the Navy as a Captain and Vietnam Veteran. Being a Naval Aviator and deemed "the best instrument pilot around" by his surviving peers, was a tremendous source of honor for him. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Political Science at Bradley University, where he also walked on to the baseball team eventually setting the stolen base record. Sluggo helped his Bradley Braves play their way into the College World Series where he led the team in hitting. Jim was a proud member of the Waukegan City Club, Lake County Board, IPAA Board of Directors, PRCU, KSKJ, Polish Legion of American Veterans, Glen Flora CC, 3rd Degree K of C, Swedish Glee Club and St. Anastasia church where he was a frequent usher. Jim was a former proprietor of the following: Stanczak Lanes in N. Chicago, Grand Bowl in Waukegan, Sluggo's Sweets N Stuff in Zion. Former Regional Manager for the DMV and most recently former Manager of Waukegan International Airport. Jim revitalized the spectacle now known as the Northern IL Airshow/Wings Over Waukegan back in 2002. He took immense pride in honoring our Veterans and bringing the thrill of aviation to the youth of Lake County at each years show. Jim's honors included the Bradley University Sports HOF, Greater Peoria Sports HOF, Lake County Sports HOF, the upcoming Lake County Mens Bowling HOF, Lake County Men of Distinction and Waukegan Cares Lifetime Achievement Award for Politicians in the Military. Jim was also an avid Cubs and Packers fan which as you can imagine, led to many interesting 'conversations'. He was preceded in death by his parents, his in-laws John and Catherine Ferkin and his Grandson, Derek Michael Pederson. Brothers Lawrence, Leonard, Edward and Samuel. Sisters Marcella, Geraldine and Patricia. |