James A. Datt passed away suddenly at home on April 23, 2021. James was born on October 4, 1950 in Freeport, IL to Harold Datt and Eileen (Monigold) Datt. James graduated from Freeport high school in 1968.

James and his wife Catherine (Kate) were married on December 16, 1977 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Freeport, IL, where he continued membership until his passing. James served an apprenticeship at Burgess Battery as a tool and die maker and later retired from J. L. Clark in Rockford, IL. He served as a Mason for 45 years and was a Past Master, 33 degree Scottish Rite Mason and Tebala Shrine Ritualistic Divan. James was a "foodie" and loved trying out new restaurants. He loved Limburger cheese, and often made sure to remind people that "you don't eat Limburger with your nose." He enjoyed going to Madison Wisconsin to concerts, football games and the Farmers Market. He especially loved music, and playing his bass guitar in his Jazz band and at church.

James leaves to cherish many loving memories, his loving wife, Catherine; two daughters, Erin (Jason) Buss, and Lauren (James) Nelson; three grandchildren, Kaleb Buss, Aubree Buss, and Ava Nelson; one sister, Carol Ann Mattar, and many many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

A visitation will be held on Friday, April 30, 2021 from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Walker Mortuary in Freeport with a Masonic Service beginning at 6:00 p.m. The funeral will take place Saturday, May 1, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Freeport. Interment will take place at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens in Freeport at a later date. Condolences may be shared here on the website www.walkermortuary.com. A memorial fund has been established in his name to The ALS Association.