James Schnaitman

James A. Schnaitman, age 75, of Elburn, passed away Saturday, October 27, 2018, surrounded by the love and prayers of his family following a two-year battle with pancreatic cancer.
Jim was born June 16, 1943, in Chicago, IL, to proud parents Roy and Elaine (Jordan) Schnaitman.
He grew up in Chicago until the age 7, when the family moved to a dairy farm in Exland, WI. When Jim entered his junior year, the family moved back to IL and settled in West Chicago where he graduated with the class of 1961.
Right after graduation, Jim enlisted into the United States Air Force and served proudly until his honorable discharge in September 1967. Upon return to civilian life, Jim immediately found employment with General Mills, also in West Chicago, and continued to work there for the next 35 years. He retired in 2000 to concentrate on appreciating and creating fine art.
Jim had an ingratiating smile and warm handshake. If you looked closely, you could see the strength in those hands that were born of countless hours inside car engines, electrical, plumbing, and anything mechanical. He was a master mechanic and often had grease and oil underneath his fingernails. The oil was not always of the engine variety however, as he had an artist heart. Jim made a name for himself when he put oil paint to canvas and many of his works could be seen at Gallery 200 in West Chicago. He was equally proud of the time he spent in the service as he was of the time spent with veterans after his discharge. Jim was a member and served as post commander of Elburn American Legion Post 630 for two years. He was the post Service Officer, treasurer, rental manager, and was also a delegate to the Kane County Veterans Administration where he disseminated benefit information to many veterans. In addition, Jim was also a member of the Audubon Society. Jim was also seen at countless blood drives where he donated gallons to save the lives of others.
Jim was a “Jack of all trades… and master of most”. His hands were only idle when he was in between projects, and that was never for long. If it was broke, Jim could fix it. Jim always knew the answer. His firstborn grandson, Brian, was the apple of his eye. He bequeathed to him as much wisdom and knowledge as Jim could muster. Having Brian follow in his master mechanic footsteps was a source of great pride. Summers were spent at his idyllic cabin on Nelson Lake, near Hayward, WI. Days were filled with fishing, boating and taking in the unmatched God-given scenery that spoke to his soul like no other. Only two iron clad rules were followed at the cabin when it came to Jim; don’t get him wet and don’t get him sticky. Countless memories were made over the years, and they remain as a balm for the pain of his loss.
He is survived by his loving wife Nancy of 50 years; two children: James Schnaitman, and Sally (Karl) Kruthoff; Six grandchildren: Brian Schnaitman, Kristofer Kruthoff, Greer, Cheyenne, James Jr. and Aslyn Schnaitman; one brother, John Schnaitman; three sisters: Maryanne (Bill) Buchanan, Marie (Brian) Tomasik, and Delores (Gary) Lindner; and a family of friends that span decades
He is preceded in death by his parents; one daughter, Cynthia Kay Schnaitman; one brother William Schnaitman; his sister Josephine Lederman.
Visitation will be Sunday, November 18th from 12:30-2:30 p.m., at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn, IL 60119. A Celebration of Life will be held following the visitation. Burial will follow on Monday, November 19, 2018 at River Hills Memorial Park, 1650 S. River Rd., Batavia, IL at 11 a.m. at their Chapel at the rear of the cemetery.
The family has requested that contributions be made to the charity of your choice. Tributes and memories can be forwarded through the Conley Funeral Home Facebook Page, or at www.conleycare.com where you can see Jim’s full life story.

A Celebration of Life will be held following the visitation.

Visitation will be Sunday, November 18th from 12:30-2:30 p.m., at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn, IL 60119.

Burial will follow on Monday, November 19, 2018 at River Hills Memorial Park, 1650 S. River Rd., Batavia, IL at 11 a.m. at their Chapel at the rear of the cemetery.