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James Stephens Obituary
Jim grew up in Grand Forks, N.D. He attended the University of North Dakota where he earned his undergraduate degree and played football. Jim met his wife Helen while at the University of North Dakota. They fell in love at first sight and were married in 1953.
Jim attended Northwestern University Dental School. After graduation he served his R.O.T.C., joining the Air Force, becoming a Captain and serving as a dentist.
In 1959 he purchased a dental practice, Stephens Dentistry, in Evanston, IL. He practiced dentistry for many years with Helen as his assistant. He worked with his two sons James Brian and Bob. James Brian recently retired and today Bob works with Jim's grandson Luke (also, a dentist).
Jim loved his profession and his patients. He was a world-renowned dentist. He was the chair of the Chicago Mid-Winter Meeting, active in the Chicago Dental Society, local groups and study clubs.
Jim loved sports and playing tennis, skiing and golf. Spending the summers in Pentwater, Mi. meant the world to him.
Jim fought the fight of his life against Parkinson's Disease for 20 plus years without any complaining.
A celebration of Jim's life was held at Kenilworth Union Church, 211 Kenilworth Avenue, Kenilworth, Illinois 60043. Interment was private.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to The Michael J. Fox Foundation, P.O. Box 5014, Hagerstown, MD 21741. Funeral Info: (847) 675-1990 or www.donnellanfuneral.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James Stephens
July 9, 2019
I am sending your family my condolences for their loss. May the entire family find peace in knowing that God cares for you. God will help you and sustain you during these difficult times 1 Peter 5:6,7
July 8, 2019
Please accept my sincere condolences. May God bring everlasting comfort to your hearts and give you the strength to endure this difficult time.
(2 Thessalonians 2:16,17
Lizzie
July 8, 2019
July 8, 2019
Offering my deepest condolences during this difficult time. 1 Co. 15:26
Walter Urick
July 6, 2019
Helen, you and your family are in both Karen's and my thoughts and prayers. We enjoyed many wonderful sunset evenings at your Lake Michigan summer home when Karen's mom, Louise, was with us and I have many fond memories of playing tennis and golf with Jim. He was a great competitor and fun guy to be around.
Donald & Susan Borah
July 4, 2019
Jim was our dentist for years and was kind enough to have his sons in line to continue the wonderful service he provided. Just the other day, Dr. Jim commented on a filling his dad had put in many years ago while staring intently into my mouth. Jim was special and so is Helen. He lived his life well and his legacy continues with his sons and grandson. Well done Jim!
Joan Goldner
July 4, 2019
Don and I both have many happy memories of wonderful shared meals in Pentwater over the years. And Don so enjoyed the many rounds of golf at Colonial Golf Course in Hart. We are sorry for your loss, Helen and family.
Fondly, Joan and Don Goldner
IOANNE MERCI
July 3, 2019
WEOFFER OUR SYMPATHY TO HELEN AND FAMILY OF A GOOD MAN BILL AND JOANNE
Lee
July 3, 2019
My sincere condolences to the family and friends. May the God of all comfort be with you during this difficult time.
Lynn B
July 3, 2019
My sincere condolences to the family and friends. Draw close to God in prayer during this difficult time.
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Funeral services provided by:
Donnellan Family Funeral Services10045 Skokie Boulevard, Skokie, IL 60077
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