E. James Kaney

E. James Kaney began his working life as a farmer, a role that shaped his humility, work ethic, and deep respect for the land. Farming was where his roots were planted, and those roots stayed with him throughout his life. While the farm grounded him, flying lifted his spirit. Aviation was not just a hobby or a profession for Jim-it was a lifelong passion that brought him joy, purpose, and freedom.
A licensed pilot for more than 50 years, Jim earned all professional aviation ratings and flew more than 20 different aircraft, experiences that took him across the country and around the world. Flying was where he felt most alive, and he took great pride in the skill, discipline, and responsibility aviation demanded.
Jim was also a thoughtful and savvy investor in real estate and the stock market, approaching these pursuits with the same care and long-term mindset that defined the rest of his life. One of his greatest accomplishments and deepest sources of pride was serving as the fifth-generation steward of the family farm, a legacy dating back to 1853. He believed stewardship was not ownership, but responsibility-and he honored that responsibility fully.
Jim was a devoted husband to his wife, Julia A. "Judy" (Stockton) Kaney, with whom he shared 62 years of marriage. Their life together was built on love, commitment, and partnership. Above all else, Jim's greatest joy and the true light of his life were his son, Jeffrey Jared Kaney, Sr. (wife, Nancy J. Kaney), and his grandsons, J. Jared Kaney, Jr. (fiancé, Callie Sher), and Henry J. Kaney. He took immense pride in them and cherished every moment spent together.
Jim loved his family and friends deeply. He was loyal, steady, and generous with his time and wisdom. The relationships he built, the values he lived by, and the legacy he leaves behind will continue to be felt by all who were fortunate enough to know and love him.
Jim was preceded in death by his sisters, Mariel Sandell and Doris Byers; his brother, Colyn Jared Kaney; and his parents, Calvin J. Kaney and Marie (Hayenga) Kaney.
Funeral services will be held at Forreston Grove Church, 7246 N. Freeport Rd., Forreston, IL 61030, on Tuesday, February 3rd, at 11:00 a.m. Visitation will be held at the church on Monday, February 2nd, from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. A private family burial will follow the service.
Memorials in James' honor may be made to the SwedishAmerican Health Foundation - https://www.swedishamericanhealthfoundation.org/give/ to support the UW Health Living Kidney Donor Program. To share a memory or condolence, please visit www.olsonfh.com.