2026 October 28th: Jim Jablonski

James Michael Jablonski passed away on October 28, 2026, at the age of 61.

Jim was born on August 26, 1965, and raised in Oak Lawn, Illinois. He attended St. Linus Grade School and graduated from Brother Rice High School in Chicago. Jim was married to the love of his life, Cheryl “Kitty” Jablonski. He was known for his wonderful sense of humor, his love of the Chicago White Sox and Chicago Bears, as well as his talent for woodworking and crafting. Jim enjoyed working with his hands and took pride in the things he created.

Above all, Jim loved his family. He had a way of bringing humor to everyday moments and will be remembered for the laughter he shared, his creativity, and the special place he held in the lives of those who knew him.

Throughout his life, Jim faced many challenges with his heart and other health issues. Despite years of medical struggles, he remained a fighter, meeting each challenge with determination, hope, and a positive outlook. His resilience and unwavering spirit were an inspiration to those around him, and he never lost his ability to find reasons to smile and look forward to better days.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Kitty Jablonski (Rhode); his sisters, Margaret Jablonski and Jayne Jablonski; his brother, Harry Jablonski; and many nieces and nephews. Jim is also survived by his cherished cats; Pablo, Boo and Maisey. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harry and June Jablonski, and his sister, Mary Ellen Hoeh.

Jim will be deeply missed by his family and friends, who will remember him with love and a smile.

Celebration of Life arrangements will be shared at a later date.

In typical Jim style he also had an obituary posted on Facebook:

"I've gone and done it. I've left this world, and apparently I wasn't finished giving everyone a few surprises.

After a long and difficult fight following my recent heart and kidney transplants, my journey came to an end on October 28, 2026.

I've been blessed with a lot of wonderful people in my life, and I'm grateful for every friendship, laugh, and memory along the way.

If you'd like to read a little more about my life, please read the obituary above.

And for those of you who knew me well, you probably remember my usual reaction when life threw one of its far-out, unexpected curveballs my way. I'd look straight at the offside camera with a blank expression and say...

"Seriously?"

I guess this is one last opportunity to do just that.