James J. DeSloover

James J. DeSloover
August 22, 1955 – January 31, 2024
James John DeSloover, age 68 of Ida, passed away on Wednesday, January 31, 2024, at the ProMedica Hospital in Toledo with his family at his side.
Born on August 22, 1955 in Monroe. He was the son of the late Joseph and Mary Jane (Bechberger) DeSloover. He attended St. Mary Catholic Central High School and graduated with the class of 1974. He dabbled in many types of jobs out of high school and was known as "a jack of all trades" and learned a lot.
After having a couple of different jobs, including Consolidated and La-Z-Boy with his dad, he found his place at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Motherhouse of Monroe. The IHM meant a lot to him, as he worked there for 26 years, retiring in 2019. Many of the sisters lovingly called him "their IHM brother." He started out as a Maintenance employee, and eventually became a Materials Handler. Though he retired, he would still volunteer every chance he got. James loved what he did and never turned down a project; he'd try his hand at something at least once.
James first married his high school sweetheart, Debby (Jentzen) Tomecek and together had two children. He then got his final love right with Laura (English) Nemec. They had an Autumn and Halloween themed wedding in their backyard on October 30, 2010. James and Laura set the tone with matching clown outfits at the event. It was the best wedding ever, as they were told. James loved traveling with his wife. They took many trips, including to Canada to see Niagara Falls, Louisiana, and to South Dakota just last year. He and Laura spent over 20 wonderful years together.
James was an avid Star Trek fan. James had an entire room, filled wall to wall, floor to ceiling, with Star Trek memorabilia and collectables. In his free time, James kept himself occupied with many different things. Art was important to him. He was often painting or coloring. Recently, he also got into puzzles, and liked the 3D ones.
James surely was put on this Earth to make others laugh. One of James' favorite things was to play as Santa Claus. He loved making everyone laugh – and what better way to do that? In addition to Santa, he oftentimes dressed up to fit the occasion. Costumes were a big thing for him, and he had many Oppo Suits that usually had a holiday theme to them. He made the best of situations and had a cheerful attitude towards everything. He had a tender heart and cared deeply about others. He especially enjoyed his family. James loved loudly and never failed to make someone's day. He will be deeply missed and cherished in the hearts of his loved ones.
His gracious character showed even after death by being an organ donor, and he believes others should follow suit.
Beloved husband of Laura DeSloover. Loving father of Alahna (Gary) Raymond and Erik (Rachel) DeSloover. Bonus father of Ashley, Stephanie, and Noah Nemec. Dearest grandfather of Autumn, Mikayla, & Madison Raymond, Lucy & Cora DeSloover, Azarius Stewart, and Brielle, Harlow, & Presley Nemec. Great grandfather of Brinley Evola and Hazel Grace McCarthy, who is due in June. Dear brother David (Donna) DeSloover, Janet (Edsel) Parnell, Joan DeSloover, Joe (Joyce) DeSloover, and Jean Ellison. Also survived by his aunt and Godmother: Frances VanSlambrook and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by brother: John DeSloover; along with many aunts and uncles. Not soon after reaching heaven, he called his sister, Dianne Pokrywki home.
Everyone is invited to a visitation on Tuesday, February 6, 2024, at Rupp Funeral Home from 1 to 8 pm. There will be a Rosary Service on Tuesday at 7pm. The funeral service will be on Wednesday, February 7, 2024, at the Immaculate Heart of Mary (IHM) Motherhouse. James will lie instate at 9 am with the funeral mass starting at 10 am. Burial will follow to Roselawn Memorial Park, LaSalle.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in honor of James are suggested to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
Online condolences may be sent to www.ruppfuneralhomeinc.com