James C. “Jim” Antonacci passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, August 9, 2025, at the age of 94. Born in St. Louis, Missouri, he was the cherished son of Passo and Edna (née Peters) Antonacci.
Jim is survived by his beloved wife of 68 years, Carole (née McDermott) Antonacci, and their children; Victoria (Jim) Manley, Toni Antonacci, Janet (Eric Cornell) Antonacci, Jim (Cindy) Antonacci, and Russell Antonacci. He was the proud grandfather of Mike Bellamy (Michelle), Justin Antonacci (Elena), Brian Antonacci (Emily), John Antonacci (Paige), Sarah (Joshua) Sherman, and Mary (Brett) Friedel, and the beloved great-grandfather of eleven. He was also a dear uncle to Chris (Rich) Biederman, Larry (and the late Sue) Nolte, Roberta (Mike) Lawson, as well as great-uncle and friend to many. Jim was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Lois Goodman.
A Life Well Lived
A proud veteran, Jim served in the United States Army with the 11th Airborne Division, Military Police Co. as a paratrooper. Following his honorable discharge, he dedicated 38 years to the University City Police Department, retiring after a long and distinguished career. He was a graduate of the FBI National Academy and a lifetime member for over 50 years.
Jim knew the Lord in his heart and was devoted to his family. He had a lifelong love for science and space, and enjoyed playing the piano, harmonica and guitar. He delighted in going boating, fishing, playing cards, watching baseball, and hosting his legendary annual putt-putt tournament “LOPPI” for over 25 years. He also appreciated life’s simple pleasures-especially a cold beer shared with good company.
He will be fondly remembered for his sense of humor, the yearly calendars at Christmas, his “Capt. J” LOPPI letters, and reminding those around him: “You can only do what you can do.” His greatest joy was spending time with his family, and his wisdom, love, and lighthearted spirit will be treasured by all who knew him.
Services: Visitation at the SCHRADER Funeral Home and Crematory, 14960 Manchester Road at Holloway, Ballwin, Monday, August 18, 2025, from 12:00 p.m. until the time of memorial service at 1:00 p.m. Interment with Military Honors will take place at Holy Cross Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The Backstoppers. Friends may sign the family’s on-line guestbook at Schrader.com.
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