James J. "Jim" Balistreri

In Loving Memory of James J. Balistreri
Born on December 31, 1943
Born to eternal life on October 9, 2025
Jim, loving son of Sam and Ida Balistreri, was a devoted brother to Sam, Chuck (Betty), Rose (Dave) Krause, and Carlo. Sam and Carlo have passed away. He was also a caring brother-in-law to the late Carol.
As a dedicated father, he is survived by his children Alisa (Jim) Kasten, Todd, and Mario (Socorro). He was a beloved Nanu to Charles, Christopher (Larissa), Jacob, Joey, Haley (Elvis), Elias, Liam, Mario Jr., Victoria, Salvatore, Nadia, Giavanna, and Orson. He also leaves behind several nieces, nephews, great-grandchildren, and many godchildren.
Jim was blessed with wonderful friends. Carey, his dear friend, supported him diligently through doctor appointments over the last two years. They enjoyed regularly going to dinner together, sharing laughter and companionship. Sigrid was a good friend, bringing balance to some of the craziness in Jim's life, offering invaluable support to him and his family.
Jim began the culinary journey of Balistreri's Italian-American Ristorante alongside Kathy, the mother of his children. Kathy initially cooked sauce and meatballs in their home kitchen before the ristorante's kitchen was completed. Later, Kathy waited on tables with Jim's mother, Ida, his sister Rose, Jan, and others.
Tom Siever (Gina), a loyal friend and general manager has been instrumental in the restaurant's success for 50 years since joining at 14 years old. Alongside Frank (Sherry) Balistreri and Bill (Denise) Corlette dedicated friends and employees for over 45 years each brought Jim's vision to life.
Jim wished to express his deepest gratitude to all the employees who stood by him throughout the past 55+ years. He cherished the dedication and hard work of each staff member and was profoundly thankful for their loyalty and commitment, which were the cornerstone of the establishment's success. Jim was generous, courageous, kind, and deep in his faith. His quick wit and crazy sense of humor brought joy to all who knew him. He had a passion for traveling and exploring new places, ever curious about the world around him. His true passion was the restaurant business, where he traveled the road less taken, knowing how to love God and others through his work.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the National Shrine of Saint Jude here.
Balistreri's Italian-American Ristorante and Balistreri's Bluemound Inn will continue to operate as normal, honoring Jim's legacy.
John J. Clark Associate