James C. Swain , age 97 of Freeport, IL, passed away on Saturday, December 9, 2023 at Manor Court in Freeport. He was born April 5, 1926 in Ogden, IA; the son of the late DeWitt Swain and Helena (Stock) Swain-Marks. He was a graduate of Stockton High School. James married Marjorie Rogers on June 25, 1951; she passed on January 18, 2015.

He served in the United States Army during the Korean War from 1951 to 1953. He farmed then worked as a maintenance supervisor at Kelly Springfield until retirement. After retirement he enjoyed helping his nephews on the farm and took his last combine ride just a few weeks ago. James was a member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church of Lena, IL. His memberships also include the American Legion of Lena and Plum River Masonic Lodge in Stockton, starting his membership in 1948 and recently received his 75 year pin.

He enjoyed gardening, mowing his lawn, playing cards, and traveling with his wife, Margie. He always kept busy and was a talented handyman and he took great pride in making all of his home repairs. He was a "Jack of all trades" and a great teacher to all of his nephews. He loved going out for breakfast on Wednesdays with his group of retired friends, The R.O.M.E.O's (retired old men eating out.) Every month, on a Saturday, he joined his nephews for breakfast as well.

James is survived by his daughter, Dawn Burkhalter of Freeport; grandchildren: Josh, Scott, and Nick Burkhalter; and 6 great grandchildren. He also dearly loved his many nieces and nephews that admired him greatly.

He is preceded in death by his father, DeWitt Swain; mother and step-father, Helena & Paul Marks; son, David Swain; brother, David Swain; and sister, Mary Williams.

The funeral service will be held Saturday, December 16, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Lena, IL. There will be a visitation before the service beginning at 10:00 a.m. Interment will take place at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens in Freeport. A memorial fund has been established for Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Parkinson's Research, and St. Jude's. Condolences may be shared at www.walkermortuary.com.