James L Grammer

James L. Grammer, 79, of Mahomet, IL, peacefully passed away on 9/11/20 at home surrounded by his family after a recent diagnosis of pancreatic cancer and 30 years of muscular dystrophy.

Jim was born on April 3, 1941 to Howard and Fern (née McElmurry) Grammer in Carbondale, IL. Jim graduated from Murphysboro High School, Class of 1959 and from DeVry Tech in Chicago in 1961.  On April 14th, 1962, he married his high school sweetheart, Anna Louise Moore.

While a student at DeVry Tech, he worked at Associated Research and earned his way into the role of lead engineer, staying on for about 10 years.   His next employer, Baldwin and Associates, transferred the family to several towns in Illinois.  In 1978, he was transferred to the Clinton Power Station and the family moved to Mahomet, IL.  In 1988, Jim chose to leave Baldwin and Associates to open his own computer programming business, Automated Information, from which he retired at age 65. 

Many who knew Jim spoke of his God-given presence of authority, wisdom, hope, confidence, and peace. He was known for his quick wit, kind words, and love for everyone.  Jim worked to counsel and encourage many to a stronger faith in Christ. For more than 35 years, Jim and Louise were active members of Sangamon Valley Christian Center.  Jim served many years on both the board and as an elder. He walked out his faith with honor and strength, even in challenging times; he set the example for all around him. He was always available to offer a helping hand, a listening ear, or spoken wisdom. 

He had a passion for old photographs and invested in becoming certified in Photoshop Restoration. He and Louise spent countless hours researching family history, piecing together old documents and photos to tell stories long forgotten.  Jim had many other hobbies including creating oil paintings, tinkering in the garage on anything electrical or mechanical, was an avid NASCAR race fan and made the best Super Bowl dip.  Birthday and holiday gatherings were joyous and energetic.

Jim is survived by his wife Louise, sister, Catherine Voorhees and her husband, Dr. Craig Voorhees.  Jim’s and Louise's seven children survive him: Jean Couch (Glenn); David Grammer (Lynn); Steven Grammer (Elizabeth); Sharon Warren (Chris); Amy Amos (Sean); Kimberly Hillard (Clint); and Michael Grammer (Ruth). His 19 grandchildren also survive him: Christina, Kevin, Cory, Dylan, Josie, Alexa, Esteban, Elijah, Logan, Lillie, Savannah, Isaac, Caleb, Sophia, Aramis, Evelyn, Maxwell, Brinley, and Avila.  

A private family interment will be held on Tuesday September 15, 2020 at Grandview Memorial Gardens in Champaign, Illinois. Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Champaign, Illinois 710 N. Neil Street, Champaign, Illinois 61820 assisted with arrangements.  Please join his family in sharing memories, photos and condolences on his Tribute Wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.

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