James Samuel Wirt OBITUARY

James Samuel Wirt OBITUARY

James Samuel Wirt was born in Galesburg, Illinois on January 14, 1932 to Sidney and Emma Wirt. James, also known as Jim, lived in Galesburg during his early years and graduated from Galesburg High School in 1950. He then attended Knox College, studying political science and graduating cum laude in 1954. After graduation, he joined the United States Army and served as a Special Agent in the Counter Intelligence Corps at Fort Lewis, Washington. The army awarded him the National Defense Service Medal as well as the Good Conduct Medal. In 1959, Jim graduated from Northwestern University School of Law and was admitted to the Illinois Bar. That same year, he began practicing law at Meyers and Matthias in Chicago, and he later founded the law firm of Wirt and Schlak in 1981. He also established Planned Environment in 1972 and developed real estate holdings in Illinois and Iowa.

Jim married Constance Cowing on June 25, 1960 in Joliet, Illinois. He later married Alice Davies on May 7, 1976 in Joliet, and they celebrated their fiftieth wedding anniversary last month. Jim’s children include John Wirt, Jamie Wirt (Christine), Sally Wirt (Allan Mejia), Alicia Fox (Stephen), and Candace Wirt (Lawson Kelly).

Jim died on June 24, 2026 at “The Farm” in New Lenox, Illinois at the age of 94. Needless to say, he passed away peacefully at home, as he wished, with Alice and Jamie holding his hands. He is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren, including Alexander Wirt, Bobby Wirt, Will Wirt, Emma Wirt, Evan Mejia, and Patrick Kelly. Jim was a lover of the humanities, nature, sports, and dogs, and he was a lifelong student.

The memorial service celebrating his life will be held on Wednesday, July 1, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at Marley Community Church, 12625 187th Street, Mokena, Illinois 60448. After the service, there will be a private interment at Maplewood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please plant memorial trees in his honor via www.hickeyfuneral.com. Arrangements entrusted to Hickey Memorial Chapels. For more information and online register please visit www.hickeyfuneral.com or call (815) 485-8697.