James Waltz
Bethalto |
James “Jim” G. Waltz, 89, was called home to his Lord and Savior at 6:55 am Tuesday, September 30, 2014 at his home under the care of BJC Hospice.
He was born on July 5, 1925 in Eldorado, IL, the son of David F. and Gwendoline P. (Edwards) Waltz.
He married Jeanette Downey on July 13, 1946 in Kentucky. She survives.
Jim served his country in the U.S. Army Air Corp from 1943 to 1945, serving during World War II in the Pacific Theatre. He was a gas serviceman for Illinois Power for over 20 years, retiring in 1987. He was a member of Berean Baptist Church in Bunker Hill for 17 years, until moving to Bethalto. There he rejoined his home church, 1st Baptist Church of Bethalto. He also was a member of the Bethalto Masonic Lodge #406 and Alton VFW Post #1308. He enjoyed woodworking, golfing, bowling, gardening and was an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan. Most of all he loved spending time with his family.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children and their spouses, Ron and Nancy Waltz of Godfrey, Gwen and David Smith of Holiday Shores, Kellye and Mike Harkey of Bethalto and Kevin and Mona Waltz of Godfrey; eight grandchildren; fifteen great grandchildren; one sister, Bea Stafford of Harrisburg, IL; two brothers and a sister-in-law, Alvin and Betty Waltz of Ohio and Bill Waltz of Brighton and many nieces, nephews and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, four brothers, three sisters and a granddaughter.
Visitation will be from 9:30 am until services at 12 Noon Saturday, October 4, 2014 at Elias, Kallal and Schaaf Funeral Home in Bethalto with Pastor Chip Faulkner and Pastor Larry Rhodes officiating.
Burial will follow at Rose Lawn Memory Gardens in Bethalto with military rites by Alton VFW Post #1308.
Memorials may be made to the 1st Baptist Church of Bethalto or BJC Hospice
Online condolences and guest book may be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com
Elias, Kallal & Schaaf Funeral Home
