James "Jim" Marusich

1937 - 2024

James "Jim" Marusich
Born: May 15, 1937 in LaSalle, IL.
Died: March 8, 2024 in Henry, IL.
James Marusich, 86, of Peru, IL, passed away on March 8, 2024. He was born on May 15, 1937, in LaSalle, Illinois.
Jim, a devoted family man, is survived by his loving wife Barbara of 57 years; his daughters Becky (Doug) French, and Christina Marusich, and son Jay (Deb) Marusich. He is also survived by his grandchildren Avery, Ella, Ryan, and Quincy, as well as brothers Rudy (Lois) Marusich, Ronald (Margie) Marusich, and sister Jeanette (Phil) Quentin. He was preceded in death by his mother Victoria (Kmieciak) and father Rudolph.
A proud veteran, Jim served in the U.S. Army National Guard for 7 years before being honorably discharged in 1963.
With a career spanning 35 years in engineering with the Illinois Department of Transportation, Jim made significant contributions to his community.
He was a dedicated member of St. Hyacinth Church in LaSalle, Illinois. He also attended St. Hyacinth Grade School, LaSalle Peru High School and LPO Junior College.
In his early years, Jim enjoyed playing many sports, especially baseball and softball. He later spent countless hours officially and unofficially coaching his kids, his neighbors kids or just about anyone he encountered. However, his favorite coaching came in his later years when he was teaching his grandchildren how to bait a hook, swing a club, or throw a ball. In his free time, Jim enjoyed cooking, rooting for the White Sox and Bears, spending time with his family, fishing, golfing, and bowling.
A funeral mass will be held at St. Hyacinth in LaSalle, Illinois, on Friday, March 15 at 11:30. The Very Reverend Tom Otto, pastor of LaSalle Catholic Parishes will officiate. Visitation will be in the church on Friday from 9:30 until the time of services. Cremation rites will be accorded after the mass.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made directed to the St. Hyacinth Renovation Fund or LaSalle Knights of Columbus #792 Charities.
On line condolences may be expressed at www.burgessfh.com
Burgess Funeral Home in LaSalle, Illinois, is assisting with the funeral arrangements.