James J. Somers, 87, Forrest, passed away at 4:28pm, Thursday, January 18, 2024 at his residence, Forrest.
Cremation rites have been accorded by Duffy-Pils Memorial Home, Fairbury. A private graveside service will be held at Strawn Cemetery. The family suggests memorials be given to the Shriners Children’s Hospital, Attn: Shriners Children’s PO Box 947765, Atlanta, GA 30394
James was born May 7, 1936, in Fairbury, the son of Aloysius and Christine (Donovan) Somers. He married Beverly King on December 15, 1956 in Strawn. She died November 22, 2023.
Surviving are his children, Pam (Randy) Hoogstraat and Todd Somers, daughter-in-law, Tracy Somers, 8 grandchildren; Matt (Marcie), Kaylan (Jordan), Mandy, Alice Kay, Courtney (Blake), Jonah, Cassie (Daniel), Nathan; 6 great grandchildren; Everett, Emery, Pryor, Quinlee, Tripp and Lily; and sister, Mary Steenhausen.
He was preceded in death by his parents, 1 son, Michael Somers, and two brothers, Frank and John Somers.
As a young man Jim farmed until he began working for Livingston Service Company and later Evergreen FS, retiring in 2004 after 30 years of service. Jim’s favorite thing to do was to cook with his buddy Lee. Over the years they cooked 1000’s of hamburgers, port chops etc. at various farm functions. Other hobbies included taking pride in his yard and gardening with a couple of good friends. Jim liked all kinds of sports, but his favorite were the ones his grandchildren were participating in where you could always find him in the stands cheering them on. Mostly though, you could find Jim driving around the countryside checking on the crops.
Jim knew no stranger and we will all miss him and his red truck so much.
