James Aldrich
Alton |
James (Jim) Lesley Aldrich was born to Harry and Barbara (Baiter) Aldrich on January 24, 1970, in Alton, IL. At the young age of 54, he passed, surrounded by love, on the night of January 25, 2024.
Jim had an illuminating personality; he was a light in the lives of everyone who knew him. With a goofy smile or corny Dad joke, he went out of his way to make people laugh and brighten the mood. He was a jokester who used his sense of humor like a love language, and he could always take as much as he could give. Jim lived and loved every single day. Whether it was finding a new show or movie to obsess over, keeping up on politics, or finding a new part of himself in music, he enjoyed expanding his knowledge of the world. Jim had a great love of sports and could talk about them to anyone, anytime, anyplace. Many nights he spent cooking and playing card games with his family, his laughter was contagious. His pride and joy was his truck, he was known to take a drive often while calling friends and family to ask them about their day. Jim loved his pets, his guns, flowers, and feeding the birds- he was an enigma and there will never be anyone else like him.
He was the kind of person to make a new friend in every space he walked into, his easygoing nature had a way of drawing you in and making you feel like he truly cared what you had to say- because he did. Jim was caring, supportive, and accepted everyone for who they are.
Jim had the biggest heart, and his greatest love was his family. He loved making new memories and reminiscing the old ones, he always had a story to tell. He cherished every moment. Jim worked and fought hard until the very end to ensure the best life for his family. He was a protector, a comfort, and a pillar of strength for many. His selflessness followed even in death as he became an organ donor. His contributions gifted sight to two people and hearing to a child.
Jim was a loving and dedicated husband, father, son, brother, nephew, cousin, friend, and grandfather. He is loved and missed more than words can express.
In addition to his parents, he is survived by his wife, Stacey (Bricker) Aldrich and son, Jordan Aldrich of East Alton; daughter Hannah-Kay (RayRay) Aldrich/ Reinecke and his grandsons: Lochlynd Reinecke and Vincent Roberts all of Alton; brothers, Barry Aldrich of Alton, and Darrin (Melanie) Aldrich of Alton. Also survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.
Jim was preceded in death by his grandson, Soren Reinecke; paternal grandparents, Harry and Edith Aldrich; maternal grandparents, Robert and Beatrice Baiter, as well as many beloved aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.
Cremation rites were accorded.
A Celebration of Life Visitation will be held 2:00 pm until time of Memorial Service at 5:00 pm on Saturday, February 10, 2024, at Elias, Kallal & Schaaf Funeral Home in Godfrey.
Memorials are suggested to the family in care of Elias, Kallal & Schaaf Funeral Home.
Online condolences and guestbook may be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com.
Elias, Kallal & Schaaf Funeral Home
