Jim was born on April 1, 1936, in Sterling, Illinois, the son of Jesus and Maria (Ramirez) Lopez. He was united in marriage to Barbara A. Nicklaus on July 17, 1964, in Sterling. She preceded him in passing on August 16, 2019. Together, they built a life rooted in love, faith, and family.
Jim dedicated many years of service to Sterling Township, most recently serving as Road Commissioner. He was a faithful and active member of his community, living out his faith through service to others. Jim was a proud member of the Knights of Columbus, founder of the PADS homeless shelter, and a board member of the Whiteside County Senior Center. He was deeply committed to the Pro-Life Movement and generously gave his time as the founder and coordinator of the Thanksgiving dinner for the elderly. He also supported Neighbor Projects and found great joy in cooking for fundraisers.
A devoted servant of God, Jim faithfully served as a Deacon at St. Mary Catholic Church in Sterling for 18 years and was a current member of Sacred Heart Church. His life was a reflection of compassion, humility, and unwavering faith.
Jim’s greatest joy was his family. He is lovingly survived by his eight children: James, Jr. (Kim) Lopez of Dayton, OH; Al Davis of Perry, MO; Linda Moyer of Sterling; Anita (Doug) Schryver of Rock Falls; Jesse (Mandy Graham) Lopez of Austin, TX; Bonnie (Dan) Wheeler of Clinton, IA; Robert (Sue) Lopez of Dickeyville, WI; and Cindy (Joe) Lopez-Sisler of Eldridge, IA. He was a proud grandfather to 24 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, and 6 great-great-grandchildren, along with many cherished nieces and nephews.
He was welcomed into eternal life by his beloved wife, Barbara; his parents; his infant daughter, Jessica Lopez; his brothers, Jesse Gonzalez, Joseph Gonzalez, and John Lopez; and his sisters, Melinda Galvan, Lupe Ramirez, and Antonio Gonzalez.
A gathering of family and friends will be held on Monday, April 6, 2026, from 4:00 to 6:30 PM, with a time of sharing led by Reverend Paul White at 6:30 PM at the McDonald Funeral Home in Rock Falls. Celebration of the Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at 10:00 AM at St. Mary Catholic Church in Sterling, with Reverend Carlos Monsalve officiating. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery in Sterling.
A memorial has been established.
A CELEBRATION OF LIFE WILL BE HELD ON SATURDAY, APRIL 4, 2026, FROM 2:00 – 7:00 PM AT THE STERLING FAMILY MOOSE.
Jim’s life was a true testament to faith, service, and love. He leaves behind a legacy that will continue to live on in all who knew him.
