James A Steenhoek

James A. Steenhoek, 68, of Ottawa, IL, passed away Sunday, March 27, 2022 at Morris Hospital, surrounded by his family.

Funeral Service will be at 11:00 AM, Friday, April 1, 2022 at the Ottawa Funeral Home, with Pastor Sherry Stevenson officiating. Visitation will be Thursday, March 31, 2022, 4:00 - 7:00 PM at the Funeral Home.

Jim was born November 17, 1953 in Oskaloosa, Iowa, to Arthur (Bud) and Bertha (Westercamp) Steenhoek. He married Marilyn Mathes Jensen, March 14, 2009, at Seneca Assembly of God, in Seneca, Illinois.

Jim worked in the insurance industry for 40 years, starting with The Travelers Insurance company, and he retired as the Vice President of Operations for United Healthcare in 2017. He was an active member of his community. He was a member of the Leland Lions Club, and eventually served as president. He was an advocate and president of the LaSalle County Court Appointed Special Advocates, for the children of LaSalle County. He volunteered as a caravan driver for OSF hospital.

Jim, a devoted sports enthusiast, was especially known for his love of the Green Bay Packers.  He spent countless hours on the football field, starting with his own career playing for Oskaloosa, Iowa High School and continuing all the way through attending his grandkids' games. He will be remembered for his wit, humor and kindness.  He was a steady, reliable presence and could always be counted on to help those in need. His smile warmed your heart.

He is survived by his wife, Marilyn Steenhoek; daughter, Jodie (Scott) Salvati and grandchildren, Carissa, Owen, Dominic, and Keira; daughter, Rebecca Jensen (Chris) Snook; grandchildren, Olivia, Jensen, and Jack (Kendra), and great grandchild Lennon; daughter in law, Nikki Alvarado Jensen and grandchildren Payton (Marissa), Presley, and Pazley;  and sisters, Nancy (Harrold) Ankeney and Marilyn (Dave) Miller.

James was preceded in death by his parents, Bud and Bertha; his sister, Phyllis (Leo) Vanderlinden; and his son, Jason Jensen.

Honorary pallbearers are Scott Salvati, Chris Snook, Payton Jensen, Olivia Bryant, Jensen Bryant, Presley Jensen, Pazley Jensen, Jack Snook, Carissa Salvati, Owen Salvati, Dominic Salvati, and Keira Salvati.

Memorials may be directed to LaSalle County Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA).

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