James "Jim" E. Pedersen

James “Jim” Edmund Pedersen, affectionately known as Ped, JPED, Short Fuse, and Big Jim, and Papa, passed away peacefully of natural causes at his home on October 22, 2025. Born in Joliet, Illinois, Jim was married to Joan (Kuta) Pedersen for 48 years. He was a loving father to Christine (Pedersen) Motherwell, James Pedersen, Roberta Pedersen and Denise (Pedersen) DeStafano. He cherished his role as grandfather, better known as Papa. His eleven grandchildren are Alec, Caiden, and Brooks Motherwell, Justin and Aaron DeLeon, Kristen Beyer, Alexandria, Kelsey, Caitlyn Martino, Hannah Carlson and Nathan Pedersen. Jim was also a caring brother to Robert Pedersen, wife Jackie, and brother-in-law to Hal Finkle, wife Arlene. He was preceded in death by his father, Edmund “Junie” Pedersen (1977), and his mother, Roberta “Tiny” Pedersen (1998). Throughout his life, Jim found joy in spending time with family and friends. Summers were spent in Joliet, enjoying the pool, morning coffee at McDonalds, and attending local car shows. Winters brought Jim and Joan to Matthews, North Carolina, where they joined their daughter Christine and son-in-law Brian, cheering on their grandsons at sporting events and exploring the Southeast. Jim’s passions included hunting, fishing and driving his Corvette, which over the years he had purchased 6 of them. He loved to cheer on the Cubs and the Bears and remained a diehard fan, regardless of what type of season it was. Jim dedicated 32 years of service to the Joliet Police Department. He held various positions such as Master Patrolman, Range Officer, Undercover Officer with the CPAT Taskforce, educator in Gun Safety and VASCAR, and member of the First Response team. Jim was instrumental in the installation of The Fraternal Order of Police as the representative of all Police Officers in the Joliet Police Department. Jim was a charter member and 1st President of the F.O.P. Lodge in Joliet and became a trustee for the F.O.P. State Lodge in Illinois. He took immense pride in his career and continued to advocate for law enforcement after his retirement in 2000. In addition to his professional achievements, Jim was a member of the Moran Athletic Club for over 40 years, serving as an Officer for 22 years, and was also active with the Joliet Rivals Club. Jim was known for his unwavering work ethic, loyalty, and dedication. Whether sharing stories over morning coffee, cheering on his grandkids from the sidelines, or lending a helping hand to a friend in need, Jim’s steady presence brought comfort. His legacy of strength and perseverance will be remembered by all who knew him—not just in the milestones he achieved, but in the everyday moments he made special. Though he is no longer with us, the love and wisdom he shared will continue to inspire and guide his family and friends. Jim will be deeply missed but never forgotten. A visitation will be held on Sunday, October 26, 2025, from 12:00 to 4:00 PM at Tezak Funeral Home, 1211 Plainfield Road, Joliet, IL. A prayer service will be held in the funeral home chapel at 3:30 PM.