James C. Horath's Obituary
Decatur-James C. Horath Sr., 75, of Decatur, passed away Sunday, January 31, 2016 in his home.
James was born March 16, 1940 in Decatur, Illinois, the son of William and Dorothy (Briscoe) Horath. He lived in Decatur, Milmine, where he saw Marilyn Monroe, Wisconsin, and then back to Decatur. James joined the Union of Operating Engineers in 1963. During his time there he ran equipment, operated asphalt plants in Decatur and Elwin. In his later years he ran the paver for Illinois Valley Paving. He made many lifelong friends along the way. He loved going to Naples, Florida every winter. James loved to fish and caught his fair share. In 2000 he began visiting Sebring, Florida quite often. In the summer he could be found sitting in his porch swing, mowing yards, at softball games in his chair, or any other activity his kids or grandkids were at. He married Roberta J. Waite November 3, 1966 in Decatur. She preceded him in death July 5, 2009.
James leaves behind his sons James Horath, Jr. of Decatur and Joseph Horath of Springfield, daughter Christine Patch of Blue Mound, grandchildren Zachary Horath and Katie Patch, sister Dixie Reed, brothers-in-law William (Janet) Waite Sr. and Ronald (Clara) Waite, and many nieces and nephews.
James was reunited in heaven with his parents, wife, and infant sons Jamie and Patrick.
Services to celebrate James’ life will be 2 PM Monday, February 8, 2016 at Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home. Visitation will be one hour prior to the services at the funeral home. Burial will be in Graceland Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the wishes of the family in care of James Horath Jr.
The family of James C. Horath Sr. is being served by the Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home, 2091 N. Oakland Ave. Decatur, IL. Please view the online obituary, send condolences, and share memories at www.gracelandfairlawn.com.
Video Tribute for James C. Horath, Sr.:https://www.tributeslides.com/tributes/show/FR3NBCJZBTZW2B4Q
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