James J. Real
James “Jim” Joseph Real of Quincy, IL died peacefully December 12, 2018 at the age of 89.
Jim is survived by his wife, Patricia (Yates); Daughter, Barbara Damm (Don), Son, Michael (Karen), Daughter, Cindy LaTour (Bill), Son, John (Stephanie); 13 Grandchildren: Rhea Duschinsky, Tony Duschinsky (Ashley), Amber Apps (Chris), Tyler Duschinsky (Heather), Anna Real-Williams (Flanoy), Sarah Real (Johann Shannon), Austin Real (Jordan), Danny Real (Tina), LaTasha Harbin, Lee Harbin, Luke Harbin (Cassie), Zakary Real, and Logan Real; and 24 great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind 3 beloved sisters-in-law; Sharon Kuhlman (Jim), Glenda Yates, and Laura Real; and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, his daughter Lisa Real and brothers Leroy and Charles Real, sister-in-law Sandy Real and brothers-in-laws Bob Reis and Jack Yates.
Jim was born on July 29, 1929 in Chicago, IL to Leroy and Helen (Guler) Real. He graduated from Quincy College in 1957 with a degree in Education and received his Master’s degree from Western Illinois University in Administration. He married Patricia Yates, on October 9, 1954. After completing his education, Jim began his career as the very first male 6th grade teacher at Monroe School. After his tenure at Monroe School, Jim became the principal at Payson Elementary school where he stayed for 10 years. He then became the principal at Chaddock and stayed there 7 years before retiring from education in 1987. He came out of retirement to go work at Two Rivers Regional Council as an Assessment Specialist. He was there for 7 years before retiring for a second time in 1994.
Fishing was a passion that Jim passed down to his son Mike, daughter Lisa and grandsons. Many friendships were forged and stories told over a line in the water to include who caught the most or biggest crappie. A steady friend through Jim’s life was Dave Maas who knew when he needed time to fish or an ear to listen to his life stories. A special rod to Mario, Cal and Sam for putting the pole in the water with the Big Boss.
Under the definition of family there would be the name Jim Real. He met Pat in the class registration line at Quincy College. As his family grew over the years he would travel all over to watch and cheer his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren’s sporting events, dance competitions, as well as musical concerts and Boy Scout events. To this day every generation can share his life story as he made the time to be “in the moment” of their life.
His love for sports was evident as he played softball until he was 75. He was a diehard Chicago Cubs and Notre Dame Fighting Irish football fan. His favorite local team was anything Quincy Notre Dame related. His most recent passion was following the Iowa Hawkeyes Football team as his great-grandson, Noah Shannon had begun his college career this past fall. Every Saturday you would find him sporting his black and gold proudly.
Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, December 19, 2018 at 10:00 AM at the Duker & Haugh Funeral Home and at 10:30 AM in St. Peter Catholic Church. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, December 18, 2018 from 4:00 until 7:00 PM at the Duker & Haugh Funeral Home. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Jim’s life. Memorials may be made to Quincy Notre Dame High School and St. Peter Catholic Church.
Pat and family,
I have such fond memories of Jim as principal at Payson. He was such a big help to me my first year of teaching! Some of those 7th grade boys were bigger than me! Lol! He was a great support and mentor. Hugs and prayers to you all.
Mr Real was generous with his time and expertise as a coach in many St Mary athletic teams as well as a loyal QND supporter.
Great man who will be missed
Pat, So sorry for your loss. He was a special guy. Our deepest sympathy. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Mr. Real was my Principal at Payson Grade School. Great person. My condolences to the Real Family.
Our deepest sympathy at the loss of your beloved husband, Dad, and grandfather. We received so much from Jim through his caring and positive approach to life. We enjoyed our fun times with him especially when we were all together with Fr. Donald Werr, OFM. We know you will cherish all the warm family memories he leaves behind. Love and prayers to your family.
Dear Cindy, Bill, and family. We are so sorry about the loss of your father. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
A great man. I will always cherish the times that we were able to spend with you and your family….give lisa a hus and kiss from us…
Cindy and family, I am so sorry to hear about your loss. Jim was an amazing man and an inspiration to many. The world has lost a great man.
To the family of Jim, I want you guys to know you are in my prayers. He touched my heart the few days I knew him. You guys are all wonderful. Hold your heads high and remember how much he loved you.
Prayers and love to Pat and family. He has inspired so many!
I’m so sorry that Uncle Jim has left us. Jonas asked my fondest memories – our ongoing rivalry and bets around baseball (go Cards!) And fish frys! With love and sympathy, Jody (Michelle and Jonas)
Real family, so very sorry for your loss. May God grant you comfort and peace during your time of loss and sorrow. I know Mr. Real was a very special man, loved by many, and will be greatly missed.
Pat and family, We are so sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
June & Bill Lahrman
To the entire Real family our thoughts & prayers are with you all. Jim was such a friendly, smile on his face man.