James August Wainscott was born, April 6, 1936 and died peacefully on January 27, 2025.

Jim was born and grew up on the north side of Chicago, enjoying time with his family, his two brothers and his sister, and his close childhood friends, some whose friendship would last a lifetime. He worked in a neighborhood grocery store throughout his high school years to help with his family's bills.

While attending Carl Schurz High School, he met the love of his life, Carole. On one of their first dates, they attended the Senior Prom, and just over two years later they were married, beginning a loving, 68-year life together. Jim and Carole would eventually move to Des Plaines, were they raised a son and two daughters, and where they would remain. They loved to spend time together as a family. They also loved to travel and, throughout the years, they traveled to every state and every corner of the nation, and all across Europe.

Shortly after high school, Jim set out on his career when he took a job with Illinois Bell Telephone, first as an apprentice, then as a PBX switchboard installer and eventually, a manager. He would later move into new roles when the phone company branched out into the new field of cell phone technology. Jim helped to establish the infrastructure for the region's first network of cell towers. He took pride in being part of the original team that helped launch the nation's first commercial mobile phone system.

In retirement, Jim enjoyed continuing to travel with Carole. And he especially enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who all called him "Papa." He would regularly help them with projects, attend school events and activities, and as they grew, he and Carole would travel for college visits. Most of all, he loved and supported his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren in every way.

Jim is survived by his loving wife Carole, his son Kent (Laura) Wainscott, his daughters Michelle "Mickey" (the late Perry) Misso and Sherri (Anthony) DeRicco, his brother William "Bill" (Peggy) Wainscott, his adoring grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews, other family members and many friends, all of whom will miss him dearly.

Jim was preceded in passing by his parents, James S. and Augusta Wainscott, his brother Ed (Alberta) Wankowski, his sister Patricia "Pat" (Joseph "Joe") Cannino, his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Walter and Myrtle Zielke, and other beloved family members and friends.

The family appreciates all of the support and kind wishes, and asks those wishing to make a donation in Jim's name, to please do so to a charity of their choice. Funeral care provided by G.L. Hills Funeral Home and Cremation Center. For information, please call 847-699-9003 or visit www.glhillsfuneralhome.com .