Add a Memory
Send Flowers
Make a Donation
James P. Stipak D.D.S.
James P. Stipak D.D.S.
Obituary
Guest Book
James Stipak D.D.S. Obituary
A Chicago native and alumnus of Loyola University of Chicago and Loyola School of Dentistry, Dr. Stipak went on to become a well loved and respected dentist and practiced for 49 years before retiring this spring.
Dr. Stipak, known to his family and friends as Jim, was famous for his kindness, sense of humor,and generosity. A wonderful neighbor and friend, Jim brightened the day of everyone he met.
Jim was the devoted husband of Mary Anne (nee Turza) Stipak for 51 beautiful years; loving father of Michael, Jamie (Brad) Brown, and Jessica (Tim) Smith; proud brother of Kathy (Mike) Ptacin; welcoming brother-in-law to Pete (Vikki) Turza, and the late Frank (Patricia) Turza, and caring uncle to many nieces and nephews.
The real pride in Jim's life was his grandchildren. Affectionately known to them as "Papa" he leaves behind his treasured Michael, Makayla, Ellie, Meika, and Dale.
Jim loved life and lived it fully. He was a talented gardener and loved to share his appreciation for flowers and birds with all who visited his and Mary Anne's beautiful home. Jim enjoyed many days and nights in his favorite place, Abbey Springs, with his children, grandchildren, and the many guests they hosted at their home there. He had an aptly named boat, The Tooth Ferry, and made many unforgettable memories with his family on Lake Geneva. Jim leaves the world a better place than he found it and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
Visitation Wednesday, August 7, 2024, from 4:00 pm until 8:00 pm at the Meadows Funeral Home, 3615 Kirchoff Rd., Rolling Meadows. Funeral mass 11:00 am Thursday, August 8, 2024, at St. Colette Church, 3900 Meadow Dr., Rolling Meadows.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Jim's name may be made to Hope Hospice, 3501 W. Algonquin Rd., Suite 190, Rolling Meadows, IL 60008. Information (847)253-0224 or Meadowsfh.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Catherine Shaeffer
October 23, 2024
One of the kindest people we’ve had the privilege to know for over 40 years. Thanks to you and your family for being part of our family for over 40 years.
Angela (Cherubini) Post
September 5, 2024
Dear Stipak family,
we are so very sorry to hear about Jim's passing.
We had the privilege to get to know him when we were kids as our grandparents (Andy & Christine Adams) lived next-door to the Stipak's.
We have such fond memories of spending many hours over at their house playing with Michael, Jamie & Jessica every summer and Jim and Mary Anne were always such great hosts!
Since we lived in Italy and visited Palatine fro most of the summer, we were always amazed by all the fun activities that they would provide at their house and we will cherish Jim's smile and his ability to always make us feel welcome! From the ice skating parties, to outings to Santa's Village, games in the basement and going to the drive in movies, we would always have the best time! Thanks you for creating such wonderful core memories for us growing up!
He was a kind and generous man and we are so saddened that he will no longer be able to brighten the lives of those around him, especially his family.
Thinking of all of you during this difficult time and sending love & prayers of healing your way.
Love,
The Cherubini Family
Lorenzo, Mary, Angela (Post), Francesca (Mahoney) & Cristina
Michael Biasiello jr
August 8, 2024
Thank you for being an amazing friend to my family Dr. Stipak! Thank you for all the wonderful memories in Lake Geneva. We will miss you. Love, Michael Biasiello jr
How you can show support
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Vincent Simone
August 7, 2024
Vincent Simone
I had the pleasure of working with Dr.Jim and Dr. Dave Berni for 10 years. Those years were some of the most memorable of my 49 years in practice. Jim was so easy going and a pleasure be with in addition to being an excellent dentist. He will be greatly missed. My condolences to his wife, Mary Anne and his entire family.
Lori Incandela
August 7, 2024
My heart hurts hearing about the passing of Dr. Stipak. My deepest sympathy to the family. My name is Lori Incandela and I worked for Dr. Bernie. Dr. Stipak was always so very kind and eager to help in anyway he could. My fondest memory was when he took his staff to the cubs game and even though I was not part of his staff I was invited to come along and made to feel like I was part of his team. I will never forget that.
Tom, Maryann, Emily and Michael Griffin
August 7, 2024
Dear Dr. Stipak,
Our deepest condolences to your family who you spoke so highly and proudly of during our loving chats about our families. We know the great loss they are all feeling. I hope wonderful memories will be able to lighten that burden for them.
I was a patient of yours for the past 46 years. I always had complete faith and trust in the care you provided. I also valued your opinion in other health issues a long the way. You are the only dentist my two adult children have ever known. Your gentle care allowed them to grow up never fearing going to the dentist. They speak so highly of you. In recent years my husband became your patient, too. He also values the care you provided.
You have bravely fought your health journey. You loved your profession and all those under your care. We all deeply thank you. You will be greatly missed. Rest in peace dear friend.
The Griffins
Tom, Maryann, Emily and Michael
DXorothy Rimm
August 7, 2024
Dear Stipak Family,
Going to the dentist became a family affair! My brother recommended Dr. Stipak and then I discovered that my Aunt Mary was his patient too! I never really liked going to the dentist but Dr. Jim had such a warm and caring personality that I kept my appointment for over 20 years. My last appointment was in May and my parting words to him were Love ya! Thank you for sharing him with us. Praying that you know God's embrace as you move forward.
janice Genovese
August 7, 2024
My condolences to the family and may your fondest memories carry you through this difficult time. Jim and I were classmates at Loyola Dental and
reconnected at many a dental meeting. A warm, sincere, and really fun person to have the honor to know. He will be missed by the entire dental community.
Janice Genovese
Marilyn Vittorini
August 7, 2024
Jim was a special person that always made you feel so welcomed and was ready to be your friend! Always smiling and be there to help with whatever u needed! Loved our special times at Abbey Springs, spending time with him and his family and made so many memories! Loved how he enjoyed the kids and thought all my grandkids to fish they love doing that and now will always remember he was the one that got them all hooked! Jim will be missed terribly but will never be forgotten! Love you Jim Stipak! RIP!
Gerry Spinazze
August 7, 2024
Have known Dr. Jim for many years as a colleague and friend. A wonderful man and fine dentist. Condolences to Mary Ann and the Stipak family
Laura Garrett
August 5, 2024
Dr. Jim,
The best Dentist ever! You were there for the Garrett Family. (The late John) & Laura always respected your professional judgement. Our Children, Denise, Diana, Paul & the late Darlene. Grandchildren, Natasha, Jeremy & Lucas. We enjoyed our visits. Many treasured memories. You could not find a more loving and caring man. This was our Dr. Jim . We will remember Dr Jim's wonderful smile & spirit. Thank You for 49 years great Dental Care.
Deepest condolences to the Stipak Family. Dr Jim will be missed by all of us.
Denise Rogalske
August 4, 2024
Dr Jim did so much for our entire family! He worked tirelessly and he is forever in our hearts! He came to my dad's funeral even after a hard days work!
Shortly before he retired he squeezed my mom into his appointments!! I gave Dr Stipak a hug before we left not knowing I would never see him again.
I loved his positive attitude and wonderful personality! The personal touch of live flowers in his office was a beautiful touch!
Brad
August 3, 2024
I was fortunate enough to call Doc my father in law. When I met Jamie she had told me about her parents and I was excited to meet Jim and Maryanne but was also nervous as any potential son in law would be! I came to their house and the first thing Jim asked me was to help him get a tree branch out of the pond! Just a great guy and him and I shared a passion for history. War history and music. His affinity for knowledge about everything was impressive. A very intelligent man who was very loving to our daughter Ellie and all the grandchildren. When Jamie and I got married he told Jamie and I "I have a full tank of gas if you´re having second thoughts". A jokester until the end. I will always be indebted to him and Mary Anne for raising such a wonderful daughter and for welcoming me into their family and I will miss him tremendously. Love you Doc
Ann Marie Fontana Guard
August 3, 2024
I have been a patient to Dr. Stipak for a long time. He was a very caring and generous man. I was proud to say he was my dentist for over 25 years. RIP Dr. Stipak.
Jenna Glass
August 2, 2024
Dr. Stipak was a man who lived life to the fullest, always ensuring that those around him experienced the same joy and excitement that he did. He was a good man, a great father, and THE BEST friend's dad.
As Laura so beautifully mentioned, he had a unique way of making everyone feel like they were one of his own. Whether he was taking us to the movies, concerts (and heroically saving us from a mosh pit or two), out on the boat, or singing Frank Sinatra karaoke with a blind pianist at a Wisconsin Supper Club (random, I know!) - he made sure we were always having the best time. His enthusiasm for life was infectious, and his smile and laughter, a constant.
I would be remiss without mentioning his most cherished (and revered) tradition - curating the best damn Christmas village there ever was. Every year, he was so proud of each new addition and while we may have rolled our eyes when he insisted that we come check it out, we laughed and loved every part of it.
He was loved by many, and I am grateful to have been one of those fortunate enough to be part of his extended family. His kindness, generosity, and boundless spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
To Maryanne, Michael, Jamie, Brad, Jessica, Tim, his grandkids, and anyone hurting from this loss, my heart goes out to you. I am so sorry to see him go, but I am eternally grateful for having had him in my life. His legacy of love, fun, and inclusivity will live on in all of us who were touched by him. Love you all, Jenna
Nancy & Dennis Spinazze
August 2, 2024
We just heard this devastating news; seems hard to believe. Jim and Maryanne were among the first friends we met after moving to the area. We shared some fun times but I think our children probably got the best of those memories with the Indian Princess outings and The Northland Ski Club! "Dr Stipak always brought the best toys!" To Maryanne, Michael, Jamie, and Jessica we send our condolences and wishes for your wonderful memories to get you through this difficult time. Love to you all. Dennis & Nancy Spinazze
Cathy Slapke
August 1, 2024
I was a teenager when I had my first dental check-up with Dr. Stipak. Over forty years later, I never considered going to any other dentist. Dr. Stipak was very caring with nervous patients like me. He was extremely knowledgeable and always told me to poke him for "more juice" if I felt any pain (I never did). My sincere condolences to the Stipak family and his dental practice family.
Marilyn Rubin
August 1, 2024
What a precious soul. May God welcome James home and may he comfort the family he leaves behind.
Laura Hammond Hull
August 1, 2024
I had the excellent luck to be best friends with Dr Stipak´s daughter Jamie since the age of 3 when we had our first sleepover. So many of my best childhood memories are with and because of Jim and the whole Stipak family. From Indian Princess camp outs and meetings, to being our chauffeur and chaperone to our first (and second and third...) concert where he sat or stood a respectful distance and sipped a beer, indulging in our grunge and ska tastes, to sending us to the condo with an extra $100 and instructions to be safe and always have fun, he made you feel like one of his own kids whenever you were in his presence. The most generous, kind and dynamic guy around, the world really is a little dimmer without him in it. I´m sending all my love and gratitude to Maryanne, Jamie, Mike, Jess and the spouses and grandkids. Thank you for sharing an incredible person with the world.
Alise & Al Ittner
August 1, 2024
Our sincere condolences on the passing of a very special human being and a true friend that we've known for many years. Our memories of Jim:
Alise & Al Ittner: Remembering Jim for coming to the hospital after Al's accident at the Plum Grove Club and staying by Alise's side until Al was out of surgery. Alise was alone and Jim refused to leave even though it was very late at night until Al was done with surgery.
Eric Ittner: Jim was always good to me as I spent a lot of time at his house and his lake house. He even let all the boys watch horror movies and then lied to my Mom about it at church the following day :).
Kevin & Brian Ittner: Jim took good care of Kevin when Kevin stepped on a hive outside of Jim's house.
Angie Konstantaras
August 1, 2024
I am so very sorry for your loss. I, like many, have been with Dr. Stipak for over 40 years. He was the best dentist ever. So honest and caring. Always gave me alternatives. I will miss him so very much. He loved to tell me that I was the best "witch" he had seen after coming to a play I was in with Dr. Chuck DiFranco. Wishing his family and his practice family much peace in his memory.
Pam Konozsi
August 1, 2024
Deepest condolences to the Stipak family, There was not a better dentist to our family for years, He will truly be missed .
Konozsi Family
Jim & Marilyn Nedza
August 1, 2024
Jim Stipak was a One in a million classy guy! A phenomenal human . Awesome neighbor and friend.: who possessed a " Golden Heart!" He was the very first neighbor to invite us to The Plum Grove Club. So welcoming, so kind and overly generous. Our children were often included in his --road trips , to the show, to pick up movie popcorn; frequented ice cream shops , Lake Geneva trips , etc.
''There was always room for one more "--Jim's motto. We have years of fond memories of Dr. Stipak. He will be missed --GREATLY--by All. It is with a Heavy Heart : we extend Our Deepest Sympathy to his Precious Family...at this most difficult time in Life. The Nedza Family ----Jim, Marilyn. Natalie & Jake
Dena Lozano
August 1, 2024
When I was 10, my mom brought me to Dr Stipak for my first dentist visit. I´d return twice a year for decades- Mostly just for cleanings, but an occasional filling, too. This year, I turned 48. It´s rare that you stick with one dentist your entire life, but when you´ve found the absolute best, how can you ever go to anyone else? Dr Stipak was gentle, sweet, and knowledgeable beyond measure, always reassuring the most nervous patient with the promise of "more juice" if anyone needed it. We talked about chemistry problems, and laughed at how I wanted my white teeth to be even whiter. "You want Hollywood" he would say. IMHO-he was the unofficial dentist of the NW side as so many of us went to him. To hear that we´ve lost Dr Stipak is heartbreaking-i had always dreaded the day he would retire-so to hear that he´s passed is so very sad. Thanks for being a great dentist and making going to the dentist pleasant and almost fun. I send my deepest condolences to his family and to all who loved him.
Karl Van Giesen
July 31, 2024
I have seen quite a bit of dentists over the years . He was by far the best dentist I have ever seen. He was so good with both my kids . He will be missed by all of us . He was so good with our kids , I don´t know how much I can express that. I´m sure he was a great husband, father , and a grandfather. My condolences to all of you. Thank you Dr. Stipak for everything you did for us.
Patti Fermo
July 31, 2024
He was a great man Met Jim when he started dental school Later he became our dentist He was always so caring and gentle I´m truly sorry that he is gone now He became a friend of ours He will be missed
Jeannie and Gene Hiser
July 31, 2024
We could never list all of the special moments we shared with Jim. There are just too many. 51 plus years of friendship. Raising our children together. Sharing all of the special occasions through the years. It would be hard to find a more generous, loving, caring man. The trip to Door County, the trip to Scottsdale, the countless trips to Lake Geneva and those haunted houses with our kids!! The list could go on forever. He was ALWAYS there for you with a smile or a helping hand. We love him like family and we will miss him terribly. We will especially miss his fires on game nights...and letting him win. Ha ha. Rest in Peace, our forever friend. Love, Jeannie and Gene
George Sebek
July 31, 2024
Jim and I go back more than 40 years dating back to 1981...
I always respected his professional judgement and enjoyed our chats in the office chair of golf and Blackhawk hockey.
It is rare you find such a complete and utter gentlemen.
George Sebek
Kevin and Pat Smith
July 31, 2024
Jim, you will always be our Forever Friend who became "Family" to us...your ever present engaging smile and more than generous spirit remain treasured memories. We love you with all our Hearts and will miss you Forever. Kev, Pat, Kari and Shannon.
Don K
July 31, 2024
Jim was the best and had an infectious smile. I will always remember fishing from the dock or taking the paddle boat out for a joy ride. Bonfires at the Stipak house were always a neighborhood event. My condolences to the Stipak family.
Showing 1 - 37 of 37 results
3615 Kirchoff Rd, Rolling Meadows, IL 60008
Make a Donation
in James Stipak D.D.S.'s name
How to support James's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor James Stipak D.D.S.'s life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
