James Widman
Godfrey | Save
James Edward Widman, 54, went to be with our Lord in the early morning hours of Sunday, December 18, 2011 at his home in Godfrey.
He was born in Jerseyville on February 3, 1957 to Fred E. and Ruth M. (Bastien) Widman.
He graduated from Jersey Community High School in 1976. He later became an integral part of F.E. Widman Trucking and Excavating as a Maintenance Manager and Operating Engineer affiliated with Local 520. He retired in 1996 due to an injury that left him partially paralyzed.
Since his retirement, he dealt with and overcame many health related issues and life challenges, being an inspiration to his family and many friends. He loved camping, bowling, playing pool, traveling to Florida and spending time with friends and family. Referred to lovingly as “Buck” by all who knew and loved him, he will always be remembered for his humor. Whether it was his quick wit or his continuous pranks, he always kept life fun and the people around him laughing. Although he was short in stature, he was a giant and a hero to his many nieces and nephews who will miss him dearly.
He is survived by his former wife and one love, Mindy Widman of Stephenville, Texas. Also surviving are his mother, Ruth Widman, and his father and stepmother Fred and Linda Widman all of Godfrey. Five siblings and their spouses; Gary (and Karen) Widman of Farmer City, Sandy (and Collin) Meyer of Jerseyville, Kathy (and Dan) Lewis of Godfrey, Terry (and LaNae) Widman of Godfrey, and Keith (and Susie) Widman of Jerseyville. He is also survived by his close friend, Mike Woolsey of Rosewood Heights. He was preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents, and his beloved dog, “Little Buck”.
Visitation will be from 10am until the time of service at 12pm on Friday, December 23, 2011 at Elias, Kallal and Schaaf Funeral Home in Godfrey.
Graveside services will follow at Valhalla Cemetery in Godfrey.
A celebration of Jim’s life will be planned at a later date for his family and friends.
Memorials may be made to 5 A’s Animal Shelter.
Online condolences and guestbook may be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com
Elias, Kallal & Schaaf Funeral Home
