James Patrick Farrell

About

Maine East High School Loyola University Chicago

James Farrell Obituary

James Patrick "Jim" Farrell, 83, of Park Ridge, passed away at his home on January 16th after a brief illness. He is survived by his wife Verne Hoos Farrell of 49 years as well as by two devoted sons, Matthew (Rebecca Thomson) and Andrew Farrell. In addition, he leaves behind cherished grandsons James and Andrew, his brother Jack (Melissa) Farrell and over 23 nieces and nephews.

Jim grew up in Chicago's north side neighborhood of Sauganash where he attended Queen of All Saints grammar school. He spent his HS years at St George High School in Evanston before obtaining both his undergraduate and graduate degrees at Loyola University in Chicago. After a few years of teaching in Chicago, Jim spent the rest of his career at Maine East HS in Park Ridge where he was respected and admired by colleagues and students alike who appreciated his gentle nature, his wisdom, his steadiness and sharp wit. He embodied the phrase, "a gentleman and a scholar."

Jim met his wife Verne in the English Dept where he taught both English and Film Study, a course he developed and for which he purchased many films on his own to support the curriculum. Students who avoided rigor did not sign up for Mr. Farrell's classes. He also ran a very large and active Ski Club at Maine East for 28 years. Besides taking students to Wilmot most Fridays in the winter, he introduced them to the slopes of MI, WI, and Vail, CO every year. Outside of school Jim was also a busy landlord and a thoughtful equities investor.

After 33 years of teaching he retired, but continued to substitute regularly at ME for another 19 yrs. In retirement he thrived on organizing biking and skiing group outings for retirees. In addition to his outdoor ventures, Jim enjoyed travel with his wife, music of all types, movies, plays, concerts, and hosting parties. He raised his sons in Park Ridge and rejoiced in visits by them and his two young grandsons. Jim was paralyzed his last two years but maintained his humor, grace, and patience. He always had a smile for his almost daily visitors.

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Published by Chicago Tribune on Jan. 29, 2023.

Memories and Condolences
for James Farrell

11 Entries

Joan mills

November 23, 2024

Miss hoos was my English teacher
And Mr Farrell my film teacher.
Both kept me engaged in class while learning. Home room teacher
Kermit Limberg, got me interested in the SKi Club, and Jim and Verne
Made my 4 years of skiing a memory. Jim and verne rolled with the antics and escapes of teens away from their parents going down ski slopes on cafeteria trays.
Many many colorful stories.
Pleased to read Jim continued skiing later with retirees!
I continued skiing, 25 years post high school.
You never forget people you liked,
And made you a part of who you are.

Robin R

August 5, 2023

Mr. Farrell introduced me to film study. He cultivated a long term love of classic film that has only grown each year. I continue to study and enjoy classic film as a major part of my life. I truly regret that I did not let him know how influencial he was on my interest in film. I was so fortunate to have known him and had him as a teacher.

Scott Mies

July 3, 2023

Mr. Farrell was an incredible teacher! He seemed to make everyone in the class feel special. I will always remember the incredible film study class he taught where I learned about the magic of "Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge," "Dream of the Wild Horses and so many more. I have carried those memories since I graduated from Maine East in 1970. rest easy my mentor.

Joyce Canavino

February 8, 2023

Jim's passing is a great loss for all of us. I am so thankful that I met and shared time with this kind, knowledgeable and generous man on this earth. I know he has a golden teacher's desk right next to God.

Christine Cilio

February 1, 2023

Dear Verne and sons,
I am so very sorry to hear of Jim´s passing. He was a wonderful man, in so many ways. He lived his life so well and deeply touched so many, including myself. I will always remember his beautiful smile and soul.

Sharon Smetko

February 1, 2023

I had Mr. Farrell for English Junior year and Film Study Senior year. He convinced me to join Skii Club my Senior year. He was very nice and helpful. So sorry he passed away.

Sharon

Kate Kruzel Zarish - ME Class 1989

January 31, 2023

Dear Mrs. Farrell, James & Andrew, So very sorry for your loss. I have such fond memories of ski club and trips to Vail. I learned so much about film from the class and still love "On the Waterfront" and "The Graduate". He was incredibly patient and kind. So lucky to have had all 4 of you in my life. Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.

Bill and Lorrie Schneider

January 30, 2023

Vern, We are so sorry for your loss. We always enjoyed playing badminton with you and Jim.

John Nesbitt

January 30, 2023

Meeting Jim the first time was like meeting a life-long friend. He was an open-book, ever smiling and positive. Jim was a regular Mass-going Catholic at St. Paul of the Cross. He was a regular at Panera. Elizabeth and I became friends with Jim & Verne. As a skier, Jim invited me a few times to his ski home in the UP. His friendship, as Verne's, is truly a treasure. He has left so many of us happier, and with a positive desire to nice things for others. Elizabeth & I send our condolences to you, Verne.

Mike Koress

January 29, 2023

Mrs. Farrell,
I knew you as Miss Hoos. So sorry for your loss. I was in the ski club, Class of 76; you made me talk to my female seat mate on the way to Wilmot as I was so shy. I remember both of you well and you have my condolences.

SharonKupitz

January 28, 2023

I´m proud to have worked w/ Jim Farrell and Maine East H.S. He was well respected for his knowledge and kindness. God Bless him and his family. Sharon Palumbo Kupitz

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