James S. Knight

James S. Knight passed quietly, after way more than 9 lives, on Monday, December 13, 2021.  Only child of George and Irene Knight, beloved Husband of Bonnie Knight, Father to Pam, Mary & Tom Knight, Father-in-law to Jerome Detemple and Diane Knight and Grandfather to Lee, Jake, Michael, Zack & Alphie and one precious great-granddaughter, Evie.  

James grew up in Des Plaines, IL. He loved nature, animals, cars, games and buildings. As a young man, Jim was proud, lovable and great fun. He loved a good story, 1930s roadsters and jazz. After attending Northwestern University for 2 years, he went into the family Construction business and soon after married his 1st wife, Karen.  Jim was a loving father, and like his own father, devoted time and money to the Elks Club in Des Plaines.  

In the late 60s he built his dream home in Barrington, Illinois and in the early 70s, Jim took over the family construction business, riding the economic roller-coaster through the decade. He continued his work with the Elk’s Club in Des Plaines, became an avid golfer and a member at Itasca Country Club. 

Jim married his 2nd wife Bonnie in 1983. Jim & Bonnie spent the next 2 decades on the golf course or at Eddie’s in Arlington Heights. In 2000, he lost his right leg after a heart attack + PAD.  With the love and support of his wife, friends and family, but mostly true grit, old Pegleg Jim mastered his walk on a prosthetic device. 

Ever the lover of life, Jim spent the last 10 years of his life wintering on Treasure Island off St. Petersburg, Florida.  Jim loved his wife, grandsons and great granddaughter dearly.  Whether Jim, Jimmy, Jimbo, Straight Arrow or Pegleg Jim, he loved nothing more than to make others smile.  In his final days, his family continued to receive comments on how caregivers enjoyed his jokes and personality.  His charm and great wit are his legacy.    

The family requests those who wish to express sympathy to consider making a donation to their favorite charity in Jim Knight’s name.

A life celebration will be held at The Blue Heron on May 21, 2022 at 6pm.

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