James L. Wartenbe Sr.

James Wartenbe, Sr., age 80, of Springfield, passed away on Friday, January 12, 2024 at St. John’s Hospital in Springfield.

He was born on March 5, 1943, in Athens, Illinois, the son of Clarence and Clara (Bunn) Wartenbe.

James married Doris Allmon on March 15, 1963.  They were happily married for over 60 years.

Mourning his passing are his wife, Doris; children, James (wife Quinn) Wartenbe, Jr., Jerald (wife Charlene) Wartenbe, Dorothy (fiancé Brian) Wartenbe, and Charlotte Wartenbe; brother David Dean Wartenbe; nine grandchildren; twenty-one great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by a daughter, Debbie; his parents, Clarence and Clara; and numerous fur babies.

James had numerous jobs throughout his lifetime to support his family.  He had an amazing work ethic that he passed down to his children.

He worked for JC Whitlock for over 40 years.  After retiring in 2004 from there, he worked for Walmart for 10 years as a greeter.  Being a greeter was his favorite job due to being able to socialize with multiple people in the community.

He loved being a grandparent and great-grandparent.

James enjoyed collecting clocks, bikes, hats, radios, and many other items. James loved all animals, especially cats and dogs, and they all loved him.

He always donated to multiple Veteran’s associations, law enforcement organizations, and animal charities.

He was a well-loved man.

Cremation rites will be accorded.

A visitation for James will be held on Friday, January 19, 2024 from 11:00 AM until time of memorial services at 12:00 PM at Mott & Henning Funeral Home in Athens.  Private burial of cremains will be held at Joel Hall Cemetery in Athens, IL following the memorial services.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Animal Protective League of Springfield, Illinois.

Mott & Henning Funeral Home is assisting the family. On-line condolences can be shared at www.mottandhenning.com.