Jim McKenna

James (Jim) P. McKenna was 63 years old when he passed away in his home on Wednesday September 10th, 2025. He was born in Peoria, IL on October 23rd, 1961. He was preceded in death by his parents Richard J. McKenna and Pauline V. McKenna (Deis). Jim grew up in Peoria, IL with and is survived by his sister Stacie (McKenna) Dalpiaz.

He attended Holy Family Grade School and Bergan High School where he was a part of the wrestling team and football team. While in high school he worked at the Fish House as a busboy and worked his way up to the kitchen, cooking under the head chef, which he loved to brag about every time he dined there. He graduated from Southern Illinois University in 1985 with a degree in Architecture.

He was a social butterfly, always smiling and making others laugh with his (sometimes inappropriate) jokes. He loved outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, hunting, golfing, scuba diving, shooting at the Big Hollow Sportsman's Club and was an excellent grill master.

Most important of his roles was that of a father. He was married to Elaine McKenna (Bodish) from 1991-2012, with whom he had two boys Andrew J. McKenna and Nathan C. McKenna, all surviving. He is also survived by his two nephews Jake (Kelly) Dalpiaz and Matt (Sarah Motteler) Dalpiaz and one niece Leanne (Andrew) Cusack seven great nieces and nephews, as well as his long-term partner of 12 years, Penny Svymbersky.

He worked for Becker construction for 27 years. While employed there, he designed staple buildings within the community such as both Crusens locations, the Janssen building, St. John's Monastery, and the Becker building. He ended his career with the Village of Bartonville.

Visitation will be held at Wright and Salmon on Friday September 19th, 2025, from 9:00am-11:00am with a service immediately following at 11:00am

Please send memorials to one of the following: Alzheimer's Association, Easter Seals, or St. Jude’s Hospital for Children.