Photo courtesy of Schrader Funeral Home and Crematory - Ballwin
Ballwin, Missouri
Sep 3, 1951 – Jun 9, 2025
McNichols, James Francis, baptized into the hope of Christ's Resurrection on Monday, June 9, 2025, at the age of 73.
Beloved husband for fifty years of Candy; father of James (Jonna), Patrick (Kendra), Mollyann (Rob) Weber, and Michael (Jessica); grandfather of Millie, Everlie, Dax, Bliss, Beckett, Drew, and Mackenzie; brother of Nancy Newell and Mary Lynch, and the late John McNichols; son of the late Frank and Colette McNichols; dear uncle, brother-in-law, and friend to many.
Jim grew up in Oak Park Illinois. He graduated from Fenwick High School in 1969 and Notre Dame in 1973. He went on to the University of Michigan for an MBA and finally St. Louis University for a law degree. He worked at Monsanto in various positions for over thirty years.
Jim loved school and learning, and his children were always more than happy to allow dad to research (and in some cases write) papers that “they didn't have time to write themselves.”
Jim’s Catholic faith was a pillar in his life. He modeled his faith to everyone who knew him, with his kindness and caring for anyone who might need his help. He was a fierce Notre Dame football fan and critic, and he would fight to the death for his Irish heritage.
Jim loved baseball. He loved it so much that he installed a full-size batting cage (with lights) in the backyard, and he should have received an award for “scoring the most baseball games by a dad.” Jim adored his kids and his grandchildren. He was finally beginning to understand soccer and he loved to watch them play hockey and basketball. He loved to play golf, and he was thrilled that his kids and grandkids loved it too. Jim had a terrific sense of humor, and he loved to make people laugh. He was a wonderful husband and a very proud dad, father-in-law, and grandfather.
Services: Visitation at the SCHRADER Funeral Home and Crematory, 14960 Manchester Road at Holloway, Ballwin, Thursday, June 12, 4:00 - 8:00 p.m. Funeral Mass at Christ, Prince of Peace Catholic Church, Manchester, Friday, June 13, 10:00 a.m. Interment Holy Cross Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Crisis Nursery, Birthright, or St. Vincent de Paul Society Archdiocesan Council of St. Louis. Friends may sign the family's on-line guestbook at Schrader.com.
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I went to St. Giles grade school with Jim. Played basketball together. Played my first round of golf ever with him and Tom Burns at Columbus Park.
RIP
Bill Griffin
Bill Griffin
June 24, 2025 | Downers Grove, IL
Jim was my first brother-in-law. I met him when I was nine years old and instantly recognized him as a kind, easy going man. Jim had a wonderful sense of humor which came in handy when dealing with our large family. As I matured I came to know Jim as an intelligent, thoughtful, spiritual man. He was a wonderful, supportive husband to Candy and a loving, caring father. I will miss knowing Jim is in this world but I know he is entering a much better world.
Betsy Terraszas
June 14, 2025 | Tahoe City, CA | Family
Appreciate our years together at Monsanto. Condolences to your family. Rest in peace.
Jeff Quinn
June 13, 2025 | Saint Charles, MO | Friend
I was so sorry to hear about Mr. McNichols. He was a man of few words, but they always carried weight, and he had the biggest heart. I’ll never forget how welcome he and the whole McNichols family made me feel growing up. Some of my favorite memories are in that house, and I’ll always remember his big heart and how he welcomed me in, even when I’d clearly overstayed my welcome. Sending all my love to Molly, Candy, Bud, Patrick, Michael, and the entire McNichols family.
Colette Dodson
June 12, 2025 | Brentwood, MO | Neighbor
Jim was the most compassionate caring person, and I was am so lucky and proud to have called him brother . We were 14 months apart in age, and even went to college together .His sense of humor and concern for his fellow man inspired me. Bringing communion to people , volunteering to guide people with their taxes were just a few ways he showed his love for his fellow man .His passion for his family was contagious . I will miss him beyond words . Truly , “If love could have saved him, he would...
Nancy Newell
June 12, 2025 | Burr Ridge, IL | Sister
Comfort Planter
Greg Lottes
June 12, 2025
Patrick,
On behalf of everyone at Lakenan, we extend our heartfelt condolences on the passing of your beloved father. Please know that our thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time.
With deepest sympathy,
Greg Lottes
Greg Lottes
June 12, 2025 | St. Louis, MO | Friend
Candy so sorry for your loss! My prayers are with you and your family as you celebrate his life!
Cathy Borgmann
June 11, 2025 | Fenton, MO | Coworker
It was truly my honor to know Jim and work with he and Candy for the past 25 years! He always brought an open mind to the table and was willing to share some his amazing insight with me. I loved his stories and generous heart and loved that his priority was always Candy and his children and grandchildren. I am a better person for having known Jim.
Karen Maurer
June 11, 2025 | Des Peres, MO
