James W. Laumbattus, age 86, born May 2, 1928. Passed away June 23, 2014in San Clemente, Ca, while vacationing at the home of his daughter Rochelle Kunkelmann to attend his grandson Kevin’s high school graduation.
Jim was a retired line supervisor at General Motors, a member of St. Johns in New Athens, IL, a member of St. Peters in Lenzburg, IL. He was also a member of Freeburg Masonic Lodge and the VFW in New Athens. He enjoyed being with his family, fishing, hunting and gardening. He served in the Army from 1948- 1950 and was recalled in 1950 – 1951 for a 16 month deployment to the Korean War.
Jim was such a kind and caring person, who never met a stranger and everyone loved to hear his stories and see his smile. He was devoted to his family, loved his wife, children, and grandchildren who were his shining stars – he shall be missed by all.
He was preceded in death by his parents Theodore (Katherine) Laumbattus, his father & mother in law Loraine “Gunny” and Marguerite Martin, his brothers Ralph, Harley, and Fred Laumbattus, and one sister Minnie Ann Laumbattus Fitch.
He is survived by his wife Martha (Martin) Laumbattus whom he married July 15, 1950, his daughter Rochelle (Chas) Kunkelmann of San Clemente, CA, his son Doug (Deb) Laumbattus of New Athens, IL. Four grandchildren who meant all the world to him, Erika Laumbattus, Neil Laumbattus of New Athens, IL, Meghan Dirden and Kevin Dirden of San Clemente, CA. His brother Emmett (Billie) Laumbattus of Lenzburg, IL and one sister Theo Mae (Lee) Fulton of Marissa, IL. Two God children, Susan Kay Pitts Of Percy, IL and Michael J. Martin of Bowling Green, KY, many nieces, nephews, sisters & brothers -in-law, and so many friends.
Memorials: In lieu of flowers, Jim’s family requests memorials be made to Shriner’s Hospital in St. Louis, MO or the Wounded Warriors Project.
Visitation: Friends may call from 5 to 8 p.m. on Friday, June 27, 2014 at Heil-Schuessler Funeral Home in New Athens, IL., and from 10 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 28, 2014 at St. Peter United Church of Christ in Lenzburg, IL. A Masonic ritual will be held at 6:30 p.m. Friday evening at the funeral home.
Funeral: Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 28, 2014 at St. Peter United Church of Christ in Lenzburg, IL with the Rev. Howard Thomure officiating. Interment will follow at St. Peter U.C.C. Cemetery in Lenzburg, IL
Heil-Schuessler Funeral Home in New Athens is in charge of the arrangements.
Marty Our Prayers And Thoughts go out to you and your Family. Jim was a very special person he will be missed by many. He was a very kind and caring person always had a great sense of humor and a smile on his face. We are so sorry for your loss. Just think of all the good times you had together.
LOVE DAVE & MARY
Posted by: Mary Brooks – Waupaca, WI – Special Friend Jun 24, 2014
So sorry for the passing of Jim. Our family has many fond memories of him. He will be missed.
Ron, Kim Carly & Ronnie
Posted by: Ron & Kim Hampton Jun 25, 2014
My sincere sympathy to all of the Laumbattus’ families. Jim was such a wonderful man, he was my fathers boss at GM, I enjoyed all of his stories every time I would visit at the shade tree, when he was selling produce. I will truly miss him.and buying fresh produce all summer long.
Robert & Donna Kearns
Posted by: Donna Kearns – New Athens, IL – friend of family Jun 26, 2014
Deb, Doug and family
Very sorry to hear about your Father. Enjoyed talking to him when he would be out at your house. Will miss him. Saying prayers for you all. Doug please condolences on to your Mom for me. Thank you.
Posted by: Sheila Badgett – Odenton, MD – Friend Jun 27, 2014
Dear Doug and Deb, we were sorry to learn of your Dad’s passing. Having lost my Dad three years ago and Janet’s Dad in May, we know how hard it can be. Our hearts go out to you and your family. Please accept our sympathy and know that your family is in our prayers.
Sincerely, Joe and Janet Gregson
Posted by: Joe and Janet Gregson – Hecker, IL – friends Jul 02, 2014