James “Jim” Touhy, age 84, passed away peacefully on November 10, 2025. He was born in Chicago on March 27, 1941, and grew up surrounded by the love of his brothers and sister. Jim attended Weber High School, and he met the love of his life, Carol Blazek, through mutual friends. Their story began as teenagers and continued for 58 beautiful years of marriage. When Jim entered the United States Air Force, he and Carol became devoted pen pals—he wrote his very first letter to her on the plane heading to base. Those letters marked the beginning of a lifelong bond filled with loyalty, warmth, and unwavering love.
Jim and Carol built a life together rooted in family, hard work, and simple joys. They raised two children, Jim (Caroline) Touhy and Jennifer (Peter) Frigillana, and took immense pride in being their dad. Jim adored being a grandfather to Sidney and Brody, and brought him tremendous happiness.
A dedicated and respected pipefitter superintendent with Local Union 597, Jim worked in the trade for 40 years. He took great pride and thoroughly enjoyed his profession. Jim was also a craftsman at heart—he worked with the builder to design the family home In Lake Killarney himself, helped out where he could and took great pleasure in watching his family grow up there and memories unfold within its walls.
Jim had a deep love for the outdoors. Fishing and ice fishing were among his favorite pastimes, and he treasured every trip “up north” to their home in Manitowish Waters, Wisconsin, on Rest Lake. Those peaceful waters and quiet mornings brought him lasting joy.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Carol; his children, Jim and Jennifer; his grandchildren, Sidney (Jennifer) and Brody; and his siblings, Mary, Robert, and Richard. He is preceded in death by his brothers John and Martin.
Jim will be remembered for his steady presence, humble strength, patience and the way he loved his family with his whole heart. His legacy lives on in the home he built, the traditions he passed down, and the countless stories shared by those who loved him.
Visitation will be on Saturday, January 3, 2026 from 11 am – 1 pm with a time of sharing at 1 pm all at DeFiore Funeral Home-10763 Dundee Road, Huntley.
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