James "Jim" G. Griparis

James “Jim” George Griparis, 90, Rockford, passed away Thursday, January 6, 2022, at Amberwood Nursing Home. He was born on July 29, 1931, in Joliet, the son of George A. and Evangeline (Policandriotes) Griparis. Jim was an Army veteran serving as a paratrooper during the Korean War. He married Carolyn Taylor in Rockford on October 28, 1989. He was a member of Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church. Jim began working as a carpenter and later became the Director of Building Services at Rockford Clinic for 30 years until his retirement. He served as a leader for Boy Scout Troop 7 in Joliet. Jim was a very talented furniture maker and wood carver and created many pieces that are cherished by his family and friends. He was a member of the Blackhawk Carving Club and a member of the Breakfast Club at the Potato Shack every Tuesday morning.
Survived by his wife, Carolyn and her children, Robert (Pat) Shaw of Machesney Park and Connie Laurie of Rockford and Jim’s children, George (Debbie) Griparis of Shorewood and Nancy (Alan Roechner) Griparis of Joliet; his grandchildren, Jesse (Melissa) Yarpezeskan, Elaine (Phil) Gloeckner, Nicole (fiancé, Ricky Rolon) Griparis, Alexandria (Kevin) Marren, Tessa (Adrian Martinez) Griparis, Catherine (Vic) Carusi, Hallie (Brett Wilson) Roechner, Zoe Roechner, Holly (Jason) Rewerts, and Cassie (Kyler) Hartje; 8 great-grandchildren; his sisters, Mimi Howland and Helen Chioles and his brother, John “Jack” (Judy) Griparis; numerous nieces and nephews; and Jim and Carolyn’s dog, Chloe. Predeceased by his parents, an infant daughter, Antionette; his siblings and in-laws, Andrew (Bess) Griparis, Mary (Pete) Honiotes, Sophie (John) Kontos, and Penny (John) Obren; his brothers-in-law, Fred Howland and James Chioles.
Funeral services will be held at noon on Friday, January 14, 2022, at Fitzgerald Funeral Home and Crematory, Riverside Chapel, 3910 N. Rockton Av. Entombment at Willwood Burial Park. Visitation will be from 11:00 A.M. until time of services on Friday. Face masks will be required. Memorials may be made to Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church, 108 N. 5th St. Rockford, IL 61107 or to Mercyhealth Hospice, 4223 E. State St. Rockford, IL 61108, in Jim’s name. Share online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.