James Michael "Jim" Christopher

James "Jim" Michael Christopher, age 74, passed away peacefully on April 30, 2025, with his loving family by his side.
Beloved husband of Kathleen Ann Christopher (née Karasuskas); devoted father of Carrie Ann (Joseph) Becker and James Joseph "J.J." (Leigh) Christopher; cherished grandfather of Reese, Reagan, and Kal; dear brother of Susan (Harry) Marion, Nancy Christopher, Thomas (Debbie) Christopher, and Richard (Jacqueline) Christopher.
Jim was an exceptional coach and teacher who lived by the values of discipline, generosity, and unwavering care. These values guided his life and shaped the lives of his students, athletes, and, above all, his children and grandchildren.
A lifelong sports enthusiast, Jim's love for the game began in his own youth playing baseball and continued as a devoted fan of the Chicago White Sox. He taught himself tennis and later became the coach of both the boys' and girls' tennis teams at Wheeling High School. Whether cheering from the sidelines or offering one-on-one guidance, Jim was his children's biggest supporter-nurturing J.J.'s love for baseball and soccer and Carrie's passion for softball and tennis.
Curious and forward-thinking, Jim brought that same passion into the classroom. He began his career teaching math at London Junior High and then on to Holmes Junior High School. Jim later became a pioneer in educational technology, establishing the school's first Learning Center inclusive of a full computer lab. His vision helped students and educators navigate the early days of the digital age with confidence.
Jim met his wife, Kathy, at Northern Illinois University, where they both earned undergraduate and master's degrees. Their relationship began with friendly conversations while Jim worked part-time security at Kathy's dorm and blossomed after a serendipitous meeting at a soccer game. They were married on January 27, 1973, beginning a partnership built on mutual respect, laughter, and shared purpose.
Of all his accomplishments, Jim took the greatest pride in his family. He never missed an opportunity to express how proud he was of Carrie and J.J., both on and off the field. His love only deepened with the arrival of his grandchildren-Reese, Reagan, and Kal-who brought him immense joy. Whether through a heartfelt text, a perfectly chosen gift, or one of his big hugs, Jim made sure they felt his deep love.
A private celebration of Jim's life will be held at a future date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN (Pancreatic Cancer Action Network)).