James (Jim) C. Galvan, 87, beloved father, husband, brother and uncle passed away on January 26, 2026. He was born in Ottawa, IL to the late Cruz and Rose (Lopez) Galvan.
Everyone who knew Jim knew him to be easygoing, reliable and hardworking. He was a man of few words, but his actions said everything.
For over forty years he worked two, sometimes three, jobs to support his family. He retired from AT&T/Bell labs after 30 yrs. of dedicated service. He served his country for four years in the Army while stationed at Fort Mac Arthur in San Pedro, California. Jim routinely put others in front of himself. His life was extemporized by sacrificing his time and energy, so his sons had the opportunity to achieve their dreams.
Jim was an avid fan of custom and classic autos. He was a well-known local car builder and idea man in the early 1950’s custom car scene in the Illinois Valley. He was a talented artist painting cars as well as canvas. He had the ability to teach himself how to do anything. Among Jim’s talents were car repair, plumbing, masonry, furniture restoration, and cake decorating. He was a musician and passionate about music and was known to be found enjoying his favorite songs. The list was endless. He had a giving spirit, always willing to help others. He was a lifelong learner with grit and determination to solve any problem and achieve any task. When he decided to do something, he accomplished his goal no matter what. He exemplified hard work, honesty and love.
One of Jim’s greatest joys was watching what his sons had achieved, bragging about his children and grandchildren. A man of few sentimental words his family and children all knew how deeply he loved them.
Jim is by his wife of 65 years, Mary (Jackie) (Kistler) Galvan; his sister Alicia and her husband Joe Hochstatter of Mendota, IL, His brother George (wife Bonnie) Galvan of Arlington Heights, IL, his sons, Jeff (wife Marijane) Galvan of Bloomington, IL. Jamie (Heather Mccarron) Galvan of Lithia Fl., Jason (wife Aron) Galvan of Utica, IL. Grandchildren, Michael, Matthew, Mason, Jackson, Haleigh, Savannah, Colton, Sydney, Eden, Cassidy and many beloved nieces, nephews, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Rita and her husband Estel
A visitation will be held at St Mary’s in Utica, IL from 0930-1130 on Friday the 13th of February. Mass will follow at 11:30. Burial will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery of Utica. Full military rites will be conducted by the LaSalle/Oglesby Veterans Memorial Group.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.burgessfh.com
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