James E. Swarthout

A loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend, James E. Swarthout died on March 30, 2023 peacefully at home, at the age of 94. Born in Evanston, Illinois on February 28, 1929 to Elizabeth and Floyd Swarthout, he was a life-long Lake Forest resident, graduating from Gorton school and Lake Forest High school. Seventy years ago, Jim placed a ring on Terry Cantagallo’s finger at Christmas Eve mass. They married and had four children; Rev. James (Claudia) Swarthout, Thomas (Carolyn) Swarthout, Dave (Cathy) Swarthout, and Cindy (Brad) Luetje. Together with 11 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren, and his many nieces and nephews, they built a life filled with laughter and joy. Jim believed in “Service over Self.” At age 18, he began as a volunteer fireman for the City of Lake Forest, which he spoke of to his grandchildren fondly. He also held roles as the Chairman of the Recreation Department Board, a 3rd Ward Alderman and Trustee for the North Shore Sanitary district. He served as a Sergeant in the U.S. Army and was the Mayor of Lake Forest from 1975-1978. From selling Fords to fighting fires his 94 active years were always centered on family, faith and Lake Forest. As a third generation Lake Forester, he was well known, often seen driving his 1948 red Ford pick-up truck on his way to coffee in town. Jim and Terry held a Lake Forest Day party at their house every year, and was the highlight of the summer. Living for 67 years in the home he built, across from West Park, you could find him and the many generations of his family and friends playing ball, skating at the ice rink and using their home as the center of activity and celebration. Their house was and remains an open door, with family and friends frequently stopping by. Their basement was used as the St. Mary’s locker room, while Jim volunteered his time as their football coach. Family gatherings at the backyard pool brought together friends from around the community, which brought him great joy. Jim, Dad, Grandpa and Papa had a smile that instantly made you feel loved. He will be remembered and missed dearly. Visitation from 4-8 PM on Sunday, April 2, 2023 at Gorton Center, 400 E. Illinois Road, Lake Forest and on Monday, April 3, 2023 at the Church of St. Mary, 175 E. Illinois Road, Lake Forest from 10:30 AM until the 11:30 AM Mass of Christian Burial. Private interment at Lake Forest Cemetery. For information – Reuland & Turnbough Funeral Directors of Lake Forest, 847-234-9649 or www.RTfunerals.com. Memorial contributions in James’s name may be made to Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital Foundation at https://foundation.nm.org/where-to-help/lake-forest-hospital/ or calling (833) 443-8663.

James E. Swarthout

February 28, 1929 - March 30, 2023