James Edmund Jacoby

A man who naturally put the needs ahead of others ahead of his own, James Jacoby exemplified what it means to live a life of compassion and faith, providing those around him with much to aspire for.

The early forties found our nation deeply entrenched in the throes of WWII. Countless young servicemen and women were serving overseas while those who remained stateside became accustomed to rationing on common goods such as coffee, tin, and paper. Nestled within this trying time was the year 1942 that boasted of great joy for one young couple from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, as they welcomed a healthy baby boy into their hearts and home on April 14th. James Edmund was the only child born to his parents, Edmund and Marjorie (Waterman) Jacoby. Tragedy struck early in his life with the death of his father when James was just three years old. His mother later remarried a man named William Bischoff who also had two children of his own: Claudia and William Jr.

After graduating from high school in Milwaukee, Jim continued his education for four years at a local college. His studies included speech and communications, and he also had six years of music training.

With his education behind him Jim worked in a variety of positions including as a surveyors assistant with Wisconsin Land Surveyors. He also worked at the post office for a time and drove a cab during the holidays. In addition to his work, Jim volunteered at Marion Nursing Home for over 10 years and also at the St. Vincent de Paul Society for 15 years. Additionally, he volunteered with the American Red Cross for four years and sang in local choirs for over 10 years.

There were so many things we loved about Jim. He was the eternal optimist who always had a positive outlook on life. When storm clouds loomed overhead, Jim relied on his unwavering Catholic faith to get him through whatever trial came his way. He was considerate of those around him and always concerned about the well being of his family members. James was a great conversationalist who enjoyed sharing his interests in astronomy, playing the harmonica, or bringing a good laugh to others by sharing a good joke.

All who knew James Jacoby would agree that he was a true gift in the lives of so many. He was thoughtful and kindhearted in his every thought, word, and deed, and he dearly loved those around him. Jim was deeply religious and was accompanied by his warm and sunny demeanor. The memories he leaves behind will remain a priceless treasure in the hearts and lives of his friends and loved ones for years to come.

James E. Jacoby died on December 30, 2011. Jim’s family includes his step-siblings, Claudia Bischoff and William Bischoff, Jr., as well as several additional family members and friends. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Edmund Jacoby and Marge Jacoby Bischoff. Visit with Jim’s family and friends on Wednesday, January 4, at St. Aloysius Church 1401 S. 92nd St from 10:00 a.m. until time of the Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. Interment Holy Cross Cemetery. Arrangements provided by Suminski LifeStory Funeral Homes, Suminski Weiss, 414-276-5122. Please visit www.lifestorynet.com where you can leave a favorite memory or sign the online guestbook.