James Robert Conroy

James R. Conroy, 89, passed away peacefully under Hospice Care in Westminster, Colorado (formerly of Joliet, IL) on December 18, 2020. Jim was born in Joliet, IL to Robert and Margaret Conroy. He was a graduate of Joliet Central High School.

Jim was retired from AT&T. He lived his life to the fullest. He was a proud Irishman, loved to tell stories and make people laugh. He was extremely proud to have served in the Marine Corps during the Korean War and loved Notre Dame Football. Two of his favorite sayings were, “Semper Fi, Do or Die” and “Here Come the Irish”. He was very active in baseball most of his adult life, until after retirement when he discovered his real passion, golf.

Jim loved his family and friends dearly and will be missed by many who knew and loved him.

Preceded in death by his wife, Ardelle (Chandler) 2004, parents, Sister Mary Jean (Henry) Mann and many dear family and friends.

He leaves to cherish his wonderful memories: his daughters - Cathy (Howard) Smiley of Westminster, CO; Debbie (Ron) Zielinski of Washington, IL and Kim (Wayne Waters) Conroy of Culleoka, TN.

Grandchildren - Jesse Smiley; Meghan (Mark) Karosky; Samantha (Tim) Woodcock and Jake (Brie) Gonda. Great-Grandchildren; Hunter & Harper Karosky ; Troy, Colt, McKenna & Kasci Woodcock and Peyton & Logan Gonda.

Jim leaves behind his special lady, Virginia Shelton.

A celebration of Jim’s life will begin on Friday, March 19, 2021 with a memorial visitation at Tezak Funeral Home, 1211 Plainfield Road, Joliet from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. A service will be held in the funeral home chapel at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, Elmwood, IL.