James Robert Wersching

James Robert Wersching, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, May 22,2022 in the tranquility of his own home at the age of 56. Beloved Husband of Renee, nee Pope, for a loving 25 years. Devoted Father of Gianni Ucci and Jamie Robert Wersching Jr. Loving Son of Robert (Charlotte) Wersching and Dawn (Larry) Bernstein. Fond Grandfather of Princess Leia. Dear Brother of Kenneth Wersching, Jay (Laurie) Meissner, Randy (Donna) Bernstein, Michelle (Pat) Driscoill and Scott Bernstein. Brother in Law of John (Bianca) Pope. Dear Uncle, Great Uncle, Loving Cousin and Dear Friend to many. 

Jim's life was much too short, but those who knew him would all agree that he lived every moment to its absolute fullest. His deep sense of loyalty was exemplified by the fact that he kept four close lifelong friends, Vince, Frank, Chris and Phil.  As a dedicated husband and father, he put his career on hold to raise his children and was fully immersed in their everyday lives. As a long-time academic volunteer, he served on the PTA at Abraham Lincoln Elementary School in Lincoln Park, and their Friends of Lincoln fundraising arm, the ALESMA music program, and various other committees from 1999-2011. He was also an active volunteer at the Lincoln Park Cultural Center, with the Chicago Park District. Later, he volunteered at the prestigious Chicago Academy for the Arts from 2011-2015 as President of the Parents Association and a member of the Board of Trustees. 

Jim was a gifted guitarist and Beatles aficionado, whose talent and enthusiasm for music led him to become a valued member of the bands The English Channel, Meet the Beetles, The Road Apples and the Funky Unkels. His bandmates were an extension of his family and he dearly loved writing, practicing and performing music with them. Jim's talent and love of the arts included the culinary world, and as a former chef, he loved to cook and go on food and drink adventures with his dear buddy Charlie.  He also made award-winning wine with his beloved Grapefellows Family in Berwyn, led by his father-in-law Jerry Pope.  Jim was undoubtedly Chicago's biggest Cub fan, attending hundreds of games as a long-time season ticket holder, and he traveled far and wide to many away games with his close friend, Dave. 

Jim's passion for helping others ultimately led him to his most recent role as Vice President of Sales for HHPLIFT, a non-profit social enterprise that curates sustainably sourced and made products, while helping to provide job opportunities that overcome barriers to fair wage employment. 

But what most people will remember Jim as, was a good man...a good friend, a good husband, a good father, a good son and a connoisseur of a good backyard barbeque surrounded by those he truly loved.

Family and friends are to gather for the Visitation and Funeral Service on Friday, May 27, 2022 from 2:00 PM to 8:00 P.M. at Russo’s Hillside Chapels, 4500 Roosevelt Road, Hillside, IL 60162 (Located between Mannheim and Wolf Road). A Chapel Service and Words of Remembrance will be celebrated promptly at 6:00 P.M. Interment will remain private. For additional info. Call (708) 449-5300. Please visit James’ personal tribute website at www.russohillsidechapels.com and sign his guestbook.

In Lieu of flowers all donations collected will be donated to HHPLIFT, Non Profit Organization in James’ name. 

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