55 to 1957. He then became a trooper for the Illinois State Police District #8 from 1957 to 1976 achieving the rank of Master Sargent. He then served from 1976 to 1987 in District #14 with part of his career being on the tactical response team. He retired in 1987 after 30 years of service. After his retirement he taught at Spoon River College. During his career and in retirement, he focused on gun safety and teaching hunter's safety courses. Most of all Jim was a dedicated husband, father and grandfather and he spent his life loving and protecting his family and community with passion. He was a past member of the Illinois Police Association, current member of the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #41, Retired State Police Association, Cuba American Legion, Pheasants Forever Spoon River Chapter and Trinity Lutheran Church. A memorial visitation will be held on Sunday April 22, 2018, from 1 pm until 3 pm, at Oaks-Hines Funeral Home in Canton with a funeral service to follow visitation at 3 pm. Pastor Micah Garnett will officiate. Cremation rites have be accorded per his wishes. Burial of the ashes will follow at Marietta Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made Trinity Lutheran Church in Canton or St. Jude's Children's Hospital. The family would like to thank Red Oak Estates for all of their care for Jim. To view Jim's tribute video or to leave online condolences please visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com