James Edward O'Toole
James Edward O'Toole
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James O'Toole Obituary
Born in Chicago, Illinois, to John Francis and Kathleen (née Forde), Jim spent his life on the North Side, growing up in Ravenswood Manor and later raising his family in Lincoln Square.
In 1984, Jim started a wholesale produce business, supplying fruits and vegetables to some of Chicago's most iconic establishments, including Roeser's Bakery, Dinkel's, and Swedish Bakery. Among his friends, he was affectionately known as the "Strawberry King of Chicago."
Jim was a friend of Bill W. for 43 years and helped countless others on their own journeys of recovery. His service to that community brought deep meaning and purpose to his life.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Patrick, and his niece Megan. He is survived by his wife, Grayce (née Daugherty); his son, John (Erin Kay); his daughter, Rory (Sam); his grandson, Teddy; his brothers, Jack (Carol) and Tim (Barb); many relatives and friends. Services will be held at Queen of Angels on Friday, September 5th.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Luis Ulises Ramos Gonzalez
July 18, 2025
Jimmy will always be remembered. One of my very few real friends I met at lpac. May you rest in peace my brother!
Ann Landreth
July 14, 2025
Grace, I am so sorry I won´t get to attend.
In Colorado. Wonderful picture of Jimmy.
God Bless all your hearts.
With deepest sympathy,
Ann Landreth
Sheresse Winford
July 13, 2025
I meet Jimmy 16 years ago when I was just 5 months sober he was a big part of my recovery he introduced me to a variety of meetings and I always knew where to find Jimmy I used call or text used to ask Where are we at next. and he would send me the next meeting.I was so proud to call Jimmy, my friend and all of my close friends knew how important he was in my sobriety, I always took them to meet him. He will truly be missed. Rest in the heavenly skies Job well done here.
Kat Hall
July 13, 2025
Jim had a huge impact on my life in a short period of time. He gave wise advice and was extremely intelligent and hard working. He spoke about his family to me all the time and I loved the stories he told. He had a heart of service. He was one of the only people who helped me when I was struggling about 18 months ago with some poor choices I made but he didn´t judge me. He was a really good friend to me. I miss him daily. Looking forward to our meeting in the sky. He passed away the same age as my mom and also, on my favorite Grandma´s birthday. I will work to keep his memory and positive influence alive in our Fellowship.
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Dennis J Stanton
July 10, 2025
Our family owned Swedish Bakery and Jim provided strawberries and more for many years. Jim was quick with a smile and shared many stories and anecdotes that left many chuckles in his wake.
Our deepest sympathy to all his family. He was always quite the character.
Dennis Stanton and family.
Mike Acciari
July 10, 2025
Knew Jimmy my whole life. Funniest person I ever met.
John Roeser
July 10, 2025
Jim was a special guy. I´ll miss our laughing and storytelling. We shared a lot over the 40+ years to be sure. Not just work, but watching our families grow together. RIP my friend.
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