James Patrick Illig, 96, formally from Country Club Hills, Illinois and currently residing in Fairfax, Iowa entered eternity July 7th, 2023, surrounded by his family.

Pat, as he liked to be called, was born February 27, 1927, in Patton, Pennsylvania to Herman and Bernadett Illig. Pat was the fourth of 4 boys. He lived on a family farm and spent many hours learning all about farm life from his dad and brothers.

After graduating high school, Pat entered the United States Army Marine Corps serving duty over various bases in the United States during the closing years of World War II. He was responsible for coordinating equipment being returned from action overseas and locating it where needed in the states.

After completing his tour of service Pat married his high school sweetheart Helen Gooderham. Together they had 7 children who were raised in Windber, Pennsylvania.

Pat also took a job with Swift Fresh Meats as an accountant shortly before marrying and stayed with that company until retirement. Pat had taken a promotion to Western Regional Auditor which moved him to Country Club Hills, Illinois in 1971. He and Helen were very active in the local church and made many friends during the 50 years they lived there.

As the pandemic started in 2020, Pat moved to Fairfax, Iowa to live with one of his sons and daughter-in-law. He adjusted well to the move and enjoyed living on a farm for the remainder of his life.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Herman, and Bernadette, 3 brothers, Donald, Ned, Jerry, his wife of 62 years, Helen, his oldest son, James, an infant daughter, Kathleen Marie, and a daughter in law, Marianne.

He is remembered and missed by his children, (Carol Susan), Larry (Carol Ann), John, David (Kathy), Craig, and Deb (January). Grandchildren Jennifer (Frank), Stephanie (Joe), Donalynn (Jai), Sam (Tiffani), Nathaniel (Larinda), and Michaela. One Great Grandchild Jillian.

There will be a private family gathering followed by cremation. Pat will be joining his wife for burial in Windber, PA in the near future.

Donations in Pat's name can be made to Hospice of Mercy, 315 18th Ave. Hiawatha, Iowa 52233