James "Jim" Donald Olznoi Sr.

James “Jim” Donald Olznoi Sr., age 76 of Shorewood, IL passed away peacefully on November 1, 2025. He was a proud graduate of Lockport West High School, Class of 1967, and a veteran of the United States Army Reserves during the Vietnam era.

Jim had a long and successful career as an exceptional electrician with Caterpillar Tractor Company, retiring after 37 years of dedicated service. An avid outdoorsman, he loved fishing and hunting, and he was an active member of the Bass and Gill and Pure Rod and Gun Clubs, serving on their boards for many years. Jim fished in numerous tournaments and was once honored as Angler of the Year.

Known to many as “Mr. Fix-It,” Jim was always willing to lend a hand and share his wisdom. He was a devoted grandfather, lovingly called “Papa” or “Gramps” by his grandchildren, and was always their biggest fan, cheering them on in every activity they pursued. He especially enjoyed playing Uno and other card games with them, creating cherished memories together. He also coached baseball for his sons at Troy and Goltz Park.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Rudy and LuluBelle (Cassem) Olznoi; his brother, John Olznoi; his sister, Diane Strader; his in-laws, Frank and Theresa (Nosse) Buldak; and his beloved pets, Colonel, Tar, B.J., Gunner, and River.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 56 years, JoAnn (Buldak) Olznoi; his three children, James (Cindy Fabian) Olznoi, Daniel (Shannon O’Conner) Olznoi, and Amiee Olznoi Twardosz; his six grandchildren, Tyler (Rachel Kinsella) Olznoi, Maisie Olznoi, Joe Twardosz, Lucy Twardosz, Rudy Olznoi, and Holly Olznoi; brothers-in-law Frank Buldak Jr. and Bob Strader; sister-in-law Lori Kent; niece Maddie Olznoi; and nephews Jared Olznoi and Bobby Strader.

Jim will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. His kindness, humor, and generous spirit will live on in the many lives he touched.

Cremation rites have been accorded and a celebration of Jim’s life will be held with a memorial visitation on Thursday, November 6, 2025 from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at St Joseph Catholic Church, 416 N Chicago St, Joliet, IL with funeral services beginning immediately at 11:00 am, burial to follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, 1500 N. Raynor, Joliet,IL In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Jim's name to Lightways Hospice and serious Illness Care, 250 Water Stone Circle, Joliet, IL or to St Joseph Catholic Church, 416 N. Chicago St., Joliet, IL.