James (Jim) Moravec

James (Jim) Dennis Moravec, 53 passed away on Monday, April 14, 2008 at 10:26 P.M. at the VA Medical Center. James was born July 16, 1954 the son of James & Ressie (Williams) Moravec in Chicago, Illinois. James served in the Reserves for 1 year and Army for 5 years after joining at the age of seventeen. He met his wife, Jutta of 31 years while stationed in Germany. They moved directly to Marion and raised their 2 children Susan and James. Jim worked at the Marion VA Medical Center for almost 30 years until his retirement in February 2007. On his days off he loved fishing, camping and hunting. He also had a passion for traveling and managed to visit many foreign countries in his life. But his largest passion was his membership in AFGE Local 2483 Union at the Marion VA. Jim was a member of the Union for 19 years and was actively involved as Steward, Chief Steward, Vice-President, and President. He had the belief to do the right and ethical thing, particularly when the issue involved those unable or ill-equipped to defend themselves. He tirelessly fought for the rights of the employees and the rights for his fellow veterans. In his last year he found his way back to church and made peace. He found comfort in his family, friends, and his new found faith in the church. Survivors include: Wife Jutta Moravec of Marion Daughter Susan Woelich and husband Erich of Kansas City, MO Son James Moravec and wife Hannah of Highland Grandson Hayden James Moravec of Highland Brother Gene Moravec and wife Louise of Amityville, NY Three Sisters; Frances Herring and husband Everett of Marion Linda Bearden and husband Denny of Johnston City Janet Beibrecht and husband Glen of Missouri Several nieces and nephews Preceded by his Parents. A Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, April 18th at 10:00 A.M. at St. Josephs Catholic Church. Father Richard Mohr will officiate. Burial will follow in Fountains Cemetery with military rites presented by Marions VFW Post #1301, American Legion Post #147 and National Guard Flag Detail Unit. Visitation will be Thursday evening from 5:00 8:00 P.M. at Mitchell-Hughes Funeral Home. For those who prefer memorials may be made to the VA Medical Center Community Affairs, OES-OIF Returning Warriors Program. Envelopes will be available at Mitchell-Hughes Funeral Home, 800 North Market Street, Marion, IL 62959