URBANA, IL-  James  C. Ash, 73, of Urbana, IL, and formerly of Rantoul, IL, passed away at 11:07 PM, Sunday, December 10, 2023, at his home in Urbana.

There will be a visitation Friday, December 15, 2023, from 4-6 PM at the Renner-Wikoff Chapel, 1900 S. Philo Rd., Urbana, IL, with a memorial service to follow at 6:00 PM. 

Jim was born March 6, 1950, in St. Louis, MO, a son of Clifford and Ethel (Nolan) Ash.  He married Patricia Shelley on May 31, 1969, in Kansas City, MO.  She survives.  Also surviving is a daughter, Christina Lynn Schable of Monticello, IL; Three grandchildren, Jackson Grooms, Harrison (Codey Martin) Grooms, Leah (Jon) Carpenter, and a great-grandson, Hayden Martin-Grooms.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Howard, and a sister, Helen.

Jim’s childhood was spent in Kansas City.  At 13, he started working at Allen’s Bowl to help support his family, sparking a life long love of bowling.  An invitation to a sweet 16 party introduced him to a shy, smitten girl named Patti and ultimately, the love of his life.  Jim joined the Air Force in 1968 and following their marriage, the couple moved to Texas where their only child was born.  Moves to Ohio and Alaska followed with one last move to Chanute AFB in 1976. The couple would remain in Rantoul for the next 30 years.   Always a hard worker, Jim continued working civil service, as well as taking a job at Country Tyme Lanes.  He immensely enjoyed his time there and the relationships he formed.  Retiring from federal service after 45 years, Jim spent the next 10 years with Renner-Wikoff, assisting with services and answering after-hours calls.  It was only when his health began to decline that he truly retired.  His final years were spent focused on the roles that he adored- that of husband, father and Papa. 

The family would like to thank Carle Hospice, especially Kirsten and Mackenzie, whose kindness and gentleness provided Jim with so much comfort in his final weeks

Memorials may be made the the American Diabetes Association.  Condolences may be offered at www.renner-wikoffchapel.com.