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James Kogut Obituary
James was a proud alumnus of the University of Illinois, where he played defensive tackle. He was a lifelong attorney. Memorial donations to the American Liver Foundation would be appreciated. Celebration of Life service to be held at a later date.
Arrangements by Memory Eternal Funeral Directors, 847-375-0095.
19 Entries
John Carey
January 21, 2026
Deepest sympathies to the Kogut family.
I was a Freshman at Marmion when Jim was playing Varsity football. I thought he was a Giant. Jim was an unbelievable football player.
One of the kindest upperclassmen at Marmion!
David Dybalski
January 18, 2026
Went to school with Jim at Marmion
Military Academy 1970-1974
Peace to you and family
Wayne Strader
December 29, 2025
Jim was kind of like an older brother when I was a freshman at Illinois in 1977. Always enjoyed time with him over the years since we left Champaign. I know he is missed by his family. I hope you remember that smile and his big heart. I am glad God put Jim on my journeys path.
I L L...
Scott Pocius
September 26, 2025
Sorry to hear about Jim. You always knew when he was in the room!! I worked down the hall from his old Des Plaines office..
(Old gumshoes as his brother Chuck called us in our office)
Had the pleasure of traveling down to Champaign for Monday Night Football with Jim on a bus when Bears played there for one year. Great time!!
I gave him the best gift..bottle of Chopin vodka. Left it on his desk...he almost broke down the office door to come tell me how much appreciated it!!
My condolences to his family.
ILL-INI
Scott Pocius
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Maio Guerriero
September 25, 2025
Dear Kogut Family,
Please accept my deepest condolences on the passing of Jim. I was so saddened to hear the news by my uncles Jerome and Vittorio Guerriero.
My thoughts are with all the Kougat Family during this incredibly difficult time. I hope you find strength and comfort in the love surrounding you.
With deepest sympathy,
Mario Guerriero
Jim Scigala
September 24, 2025
To the entire Kogut family, so sorry about your loss. We grew up together & will miss Jim!
The Scigala's
John Cioffi
September 23, 2025
Dear Kogut Family,
I was so deeply saddened to hear about Mr. Kogut´s passing. He was truly one of a kind-high energy, full of good vibes, and someone who set the tone for everyone around him to strive for greatness and always do things the "right way." He left a lasting impression on me, and I feel lucky to have known him.
One of my favorite memories is from that U of I tailgate (Mike and I were in our freshman year at UD) -he had the whole place buzzing, leading the charge with his contagious enthusiasm. It wasn´t just about football that day; it was about creating an atmosphere where everyone felt like part of something bigger. That´s who he was. He inspired me then, and he continues to inspire me now.
Please know I´m thinking of all of you during this difficult time. Wishing the entire Kogut family strength, peace, and love.
With deepest sympathy,
John Cioffi
Kim Esposito
September 22, 2025
So many fond memories of Jim as a father, neighbor and a football coach. Godspeed friend!
The Esposito Family
Chase Duffey
September 22, 2025
To the entire Kogut family on behalf of the Duffeys- we send our condolences. Some of my most fond memories of the University of Dayton and times with my good buddy Mike and his family include Mr. Kogut! He introduced me to a U of I tailgate, he then traveled to Michigan as he and my father became good buddies and my cousin and I would meet him yearly at the Jazz Fest in New Orleans! He was the best- a good and fun guy who was always generous! He'll be missed and we send all of our love and support during this time.
-Chase Duffey
Kathy (Tylutki) Pacino
September 22, 2025
So sad. Great memories of James from the old neighborhood. All of us sitting on the steps at 23rd and Washtenaw. Playing softball on the boulevard. Going to Marmion football games. A nice guy.
Joe Blow
September 21, 2025
Great guy.
Ed Machala
September 21, 2025
My earliest friend from kindergarten on, with tons of memories. Wished we kept more in touch in these later years. Hoping for strength & prayers to the entire Kogut family from the Ed Machala family.
Jim, Rest in Peace.
Picture taken the last time we met in March of 2025. Jim, Dave, Jim & Ed
Tom Frey
September 20, 2025
Gone too soon. May God continue to hold you and your family in the palm of his hand.
Patrick McNerney
September 20, 2025
Terrible loss. Jim was a really great guy and fantastic attorney. He was honed in the old-school way. He will be missed.
Randy Taylor
September 19, 2025
I´ll always remember the trips to Chicago after spring ball. The good old days! God bless the Kogut family! Love you, brother!
Go Illini! Randy and Kris Taylor
Bill Cerney
September 19, 2025
Rest in peace Jim. May God bless you and your family.
Linda (stec) Schillaci
September 19, 2025
Jimmy RIP.We all grew up by 23rd and Wastenaw. What a fun time in our lives,if we could only turn back time.Havent seen you in many years but u will be missed Linda (Stec) Schillaci
Paula Zamolewicz
September 19, 2025
A few years ago Jim I and Keith reconnected after a long time. He took us to a wonderful football game in Southern Illinois we got to meet some of his old players, had dinner with his wife and stepdaughter at their beautiful home and tried to make it up for Bingo in Lake Como on Monday nights when he could we will miss those times. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Paula and Keith Zamolewicz
Forrest Kogut
September 19, 2025
We will miss you Jim!
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2800 S. River Road Suite 170, Des Plaines, IL 60018
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