James Peter Chicouris, born on November 2, 1926, in Chicago, Illinois, passed away on December 24, 2024, in Kennewick, WA. Raised in Elmwood Park, along with his siblings, George and Elaine, he graduated from Steinmetz High School. After high school he joined the Navy and served until after WWII. After the war he married Sylvia Kostas and raised their only child Cynthia in LaGrange Park. He was actively involved in his church, Holy Apostles Greek Orthodox church, Westchester, IL and St. Nectarios, Pasco, WA. He had an impressive career as a sign and pictorial artist, in the outdoor advertising industry and became a lifetime member of the International Brotherhood Union of Painters and Allied Trades.

James, known to his friends and family as Jim or Jimbo left behind a legacy of creativity and craftsmanship. His artistic eye brought vibrant designs to life through his beautiful oil paintings for friends, family or anyone that asked. He cherished the moments and reminisced about family gatherings filled with laughter and good food. He was an incredible cook himself, making one of his classic meals every Sunday for his family, into his final years.

Jim loved sharing stories about his life, especially those that emphasized the bond he had with his family. At age 75, he moved across the country to be close to his family in Pasco. There he built a wonderful life and embraced his new home. He was disciplined in his health working out daily at the gym or at home.

Volunteering was a significant part of his life as well. He delivered meals on wheels "to the old people' (even though most were younger than him.) He also enjoyed his Carousel of Dreams family giving his time every week to help the patrons. He was one of few 93-year-olds to not only go to the gym daily, but to take a historic skydiving jump in 2020. Unfortunately, he broke his leg during a fluke landing, but exclaimed in the ER his disappointment that he couldn't jump again.

Although this jump may seem almost out of character to people close to him; it represented a way of living that was all his own. Jim would decide something, and then he would do it. Whether it was consistently making the bed in the morning, brushing his teeth after each meal, or picking up his granddaughter from school, he was a creature of healthy habits - likely contributing to living independently until age 96. It's what led him to live such a full and powerful life up to the end. Known to some as 'Jim the gem' he led by a considerate and kind heart. An inspiring man, he filled the room with light, laughter, storytelling, and when he could, dancing.

He is survived by his daughter Cynthia Macfarlan, son-in-law Mark Macfarlan, and beloved granddaughter Genna Macfarlan (to whom he was known as Papou).

He will be forever remembered for his warm spirit, artistic talent, and dedication to life, health, his craft and his family and friends.

Visitation January 8, 2025, 10:00 a.m. until time of service 11:00 a.m. at the Holy Transfiguration Chapel In Elmwood Cemetery, 2905 Thatcher Avenue, Elmwood Park, IL with interment to follow.

800-562-0082