James Francis Martin
James Francis Martin, age 72, of Westmont & formerly of LaGrange; beloved husband of Pattie (née Swieton) Martin; loving father of Thomas (Beth) Martin, James (Shannon) Martin, & Maria (Jeff) Shields; proud papa of Catherine, James, Maura, & Ryan; dear brother of Margaret Martin & Bernard (Sue) Martin; cousin, uncle, and friend of many.
On September 3rd at 12:16 pm Jim finished his last marathon. He was born on January 7th, 1949 in Oak Park, Illinois, the second child of Bernard and Betty Martin. He was raised in LaGrange, Illinois, with his siblings Margie and Bernie (Tom). The summers of their youth were spent on “The Farm” in Greenville, NH, experiencing country life and its simple pleasures. There, Jim learned to prize faith and family above all else, and he carried those lessons with him always.
He was a graduate of Quigley South High School and attended Niles College of Loyola University, where he was privileged to indulge his love of basketball. Jim applied his dogged work ethic to basketball, developing his devastating hook shot and winning the Most Improved Player award. The friends he met during his years at Quigley and Niles nurtured him throughout his life.
Jim attended Niles with aspirations of entering priestly life. God derailed Jim’s plan when She put “a certain little person” named Pattie in his path. In fairness, anyone who did not reach Jim’s towering stature of 6’ 7” would be deemed “little.” Pattie stumbled down the stairs and into Jim’s heart. She would become his lifelong partner and true love. Together, Jim and Pattie created a loving family with their children Tom, Jim, and Maria. They were so proud to see their children create their own families with spouses Beth (Tom), Shannon (Jim) and Jeff (Maria). Getting to be “Papa” to James and Catherine and “Tall Papa” to Maura and Ryan was pure joy for Jim. He also loved his granddogs Roxie and Ollie, and was always there with a nose to lick when they needed one.
Jim worked for 41 years at the Social Security Administration. He served 11 years as the Commissioner of the Chicago Region. He considered his coworkers another type of family, as they shared a dedication to the honor of serving the public. Jim was inspired by the talent and dedication of those around him, and invited many colleagues to pursue leadership within the agency. He was grateful to continually learn from those with different experiences and truly believed that diversity strengthens us all.
Jim’s favorite musician, John Prine, talked about “that scared core that burns inside of me” in the song “My Mexican Home” and Jim loved that lyric. For Jim, the Sisters of St. Joseph were the keepers of that “sacred core.” Jim and Pattie prayed with them, sang with them, worked with them, protested with them, and even did yoga with them. Jim worked on his spirituality every day and felt honored to share his journey with the sisters of the Congregation of St. Joseph. The love, friendship, and support Pattie and Jim have found with the Sisters of St. Joseph has been a blessing.
One of Jim’s favorite things to do of an evening was to sit with his brother Bernie (Tom) as they shared cigars and fellowship. Their musings on the world’s problems and possible solutions were legendary. Jim loved to have guests at these cigar filled evenings who would broaden his mind with opinions different from his own. A visit with a friend was something Jim greatly treasured.
Jim encountered moments of struggle in his life. United as always, Jim and Pattie would ask what the loving, patient, and inclusive response would be. Their choice to focus on love even in the most difficult times is exactly who Jim was, and is an important part of the legacy he leaves. Jim profoundly believed that we are all connected through God and the Spirit. He knew that the greatest impact and the greatest joy he could have would come from nurturing the interconnected whole of us with love, patience, comfort, and kindness.
Visitation 3 to 9 pm on Tuesday, September 7th, at Hallowell & James Funeral Home, 1025 W. 55th St., Countryside. Family & friends will meet at 9:15 am on Wednesday, September 8th, from the funeral home to St. Francis Xavier Church of LaGrange for 10 am Mass. Interment private. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Jim’s name to the Congregation of the Sisters of St. Joseph are appreciated. Funeral information: (708) 352-6500
I had the great good fortune to work with Jim at the Social Security Administration. We shared a love for John Prine and the White Sox. Jim was a great leader, and a great role model for many of us at SSA. He also had an infectious laugh that I can hear to this day. Jim lead with compassion and empathy, and always encouraged us as leaders to do the right thing, no matter the cost and no matter what others may say. When he became our Commissioner, he literally changed the leasership culture at SSA almost overnight. I will always be grateful to him for what he did for me personally, but what he did for us as leaders cannot be underestimated. May he rest in peace.
Jim was a beautiful spirit. I will always cherish his leadership and guidance as I navigated a very challenging path during my career in Social Security. He definitely played a significant role in my professional and personal development. I will try to continue his legacy of doing the right thing for the right reasons.
Jim was my cousin thru marriage. To know him, was to love him. He had a great laugh and in talking with him, you just hung on every word. He was quite interesting. He was a kind and, a beautiful person. Someone that put a lot of his thoughts into everything he did. Love you, Jim. Rest with God and the angels. Cousin Joan
Jim had a profound impact on my life. Not only did he launch my career into a job I loved and flourished in but his assumptions and expectations of what and how I did that job molded me into a better person. He didn’t become the priest he might have once thought about, but he had magnificent “priestly” qualities: compassion, integrity, faith, strength and loyalty. He saw the “light” in everyone. He was also a spiritual advisor, helping me to understand and accept the death of my sister while he and Pattie prayed for her and for my floundering faith. He was a counselor in many such ways and his steadfastness in striving to be the best leader cannot be adequately put into words. I want Pattie and his children to know that no matter where he was or what he was doing, he always talked about you and his love for his family. I know your grief is deep and your sorrow bottomless but oh, the joy you must have in your heart to have had him central in your lives. God bless all of you.
I didn’t know Jim as well as many of you but if I had only one word to describe Jim I guess I would choose the word humble.I believe that is why Jim was able to receive the many graces and blessings the Lord bestowed on him.Good job Jim Martin
Jim Martin was a mentor, leader by example and a voice of reason during our time together at Social Security Administration. What Jim enhanced in me and many others was our responsibility to others to be compassionate and caring. He was often the morale compass guiding his colleagues away from the cynicism of statistical success and personal prestige. I have good memories of Jim. To the family, please accept my condolences and know that Jim was well respected and loved.
I loved your dad. I worked and traveled with him in 2001. I am from the Atlanta Region but had a 6 month temporary assignment working with your dad. Traveled with him during the time of 09/11. I used to go to his office on Fridays when he was wearing one of his plaid shirts. We would have a long talk on Friday’s and listen to music and talk about our favorites. He is one of my very favorite people. So sorry for your loss
The Heavens has truly gained another Angel in Jim Martin. Condolences to Pattie and family. Jim was a great friend and colleague for many years. SOoooo many fond memories as we worked together in Chicago and on National projects. When I arrived in Chicago as Regional Commissioner … it took on a short time for me to realize how fortunate I was to have Jim as my Deputy….so hard working, dedicated , smart and loyal. To know Jim was to love him👍🏽 He will be missed by many. RIP my friend. 🙏🏽🙏🏽
From the earliest days at Saint Francis Xavier, I always thought of Jim as a kind, reserved and respectful classmate.
Seeing him at the 50th Reunion for the Class of ’62, just brought back those same sentiments.
I’m glad that I had the opportunity to read this wonderful sampling of his life and many accomplishments. Thank you to the author and contributors !
My love and condolences to his wonderful Family and loved ones.
Sincerely,
Michael
Jim‘s tenure as the Regional Commissioner at the Social Security Administration made him the de facto leader of the Chicagoland federal community for more than a decade—that and the fact that, like Saul in the Bible, he was a head taller than everyone else. He bore his great responsibility lightly, secure in his own identity as a child of God. In a less polarized or suspicious time, he was famous for administering hugs to one and all as a genuine sign of our common humanity. He will await his beloved Pattie in eternity.
Jim Martin was my former boss at the Social Security Administration. He was also my mentor, friend, and life-coach. His leadership style, influenced by his strong faith, inspired us all. Jim was a humbled spirit, who never wanted the praise, but always lavished it on his Team. Jim encouraged us all to “Do Our Best.” Public Service was his true Mission, and he was committed to developing a positive and inclusive working environment. Jim led with high integrity and was not afraid to speak up on critical Agency issues. One of Jim’s many talents, was his gift of writing, and he would share his thoughtful words with employees at the most critical and challenging times. He also sent numerous personal notes and beautiful cards that would inspire, uplift, or encourage someone during both difficult, and positive times in a person’s life. I still have all the notes and cards that he shared with me, and I will continue to cherish his precious words. I will miss Jim’s smile, laugh, friendship, and love. My prayers, love, and condolences to Pattie, the love of Jim’s life, and the entire Martin family. I know Jim is with the Lord and is at Peace.
I am forever thankful for Jim’s leadership and friendship.
He was a man of honor.
Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord.
And let perpetual light shine upon him.
May he rest in peace.
I am forever thankful for Jim’s leadership and friendship.
He was a man of honor.
Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord.
And let perpetual light shine upon him.
May he rest in peace.
Over a period of almost 20 years, I had the pleasure of knowing and working with Jim Martin. He was an inspirational leader and a man of vision. I will never forget the day Jim called me after I was not selected for a position I had wanted to offer words of encouragement. That was the first and only time a selecting official ever placed that kind of call. How could you not fail to want to do your best for such a leader. My condolences to the Martin family and Jim’s many friends. A true loss for all of us.
I first met Jim in 1970 we were both claims representatives in 26 employee Berwyn office. Ron Wloszyznski became our supervisor shortly after. We all changed jobs and in 1987 Jim was the assistant regional commissioner for field operations in Boston ,Ron W held the same position in Chicago and I held same position in San Francisco. The satiticians said the odds of three employees from Berwyn holding the same job was one in 200000. At a meeting in Baltimore The three of us were together and Ron W knowing Jim always had things scoped out asked him how did this happen. We waited as Jim ponderes his reply and then said Go Figure> We all had a ggod laugh. Jim was a rare person who combined compassion,kindness,and a drive to suceed. Yet he always put his family and religion first. Add that to his integrity and you have a rare individual indeed. Our thoughts and prayers are with Pattie and the family. God speed. Ron and Candy Dammon
Jim’s SSA family shares the Martin family loss. A true gentleman who inspired and helped many and was a fine RC. God rest him.
My condolences to Pattie, Jim’s family, and all the extended Martin families….
I was saddened to hear of Jim’s passing as I knew Jim as a child, with his family visits to the Greenville, NH “farm” as our next door neighbors, where we played many childhood games and activities. It always seemed a right of passage into summer when Jim and his family would come east, as it meant some playmates for awhile. Jim’s presence was always “tall” not just physically, but in his demeanor towards others and all.
I feel blessed to have known Jim as a friend and a family man.
May we all cherish those blessed memories we were able to share with Jim and all.
Patricia and Family, my deepest sympathy on the loss of your beloved soul mate and father and grandfather. I wish I would have known him better for he seems to have been a mighty fine man but our lives went in different directions over the years sadly. Please know that we do care and so wish we could be with you to celebrate his life in person. In my case, a bout with covid is keeping me behind closed doors or I would have tried to be there to help honor him.
Sending love and prayers and just wish time was a gift he had been given in order to be with you longer.
Love and God’s blessings,
Anita Voiles (cousin of Patricia)
I was blessed to work with Jim for several years at SSA. Jim always brightened everyone’s day, both in good and in challenging times. Jim was highly respected by ALL those who really knew him. A gentle-man who always first found the good in every person and situation. I am deeply saddened to learn of his passing and offer to Patti and the family my prayers and my love as they celebrate Jim’s life and grieve his passing. Jim was a colleague that I looked upon as a hero. Heroes never die…they live on in our hearts.
I regret that I cannot physically travel at this time to Jim’s services but will be with all the family in thought and prayer.
In loving memory of Jim,
Ramona Schuenemeyer
So sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. One of the truly good guys and a class act at Niles College. It was an honor to be a teammate of his. His nickname was Mort and we always greeted him with the same slow cadence he had…”Well, hello Mort.” Rest In Peace, Mort.
My sincerest condolences to Jim’s family. He was a great man – not only in stature but in the way he conducted himself in his life. I had the pleasure of working with him briefly at the regional office and for several years in various field offices, under his leadership. He embodied the servant-leader role so many of us strive to achieve. He was kind, calm, thoughtful, innovative, inclusive and encouraging to everyone he met. There are literally thousands of people who are better for having known Jim. He will be missed!
My deepest sympathies to the entire Martin family. Jim was a one of a kind person always willing to make the time to talk to people regardless of their position in the agency (SSA). Always fearless and open to trying new things, my fondest memory of Jim was watching him try his hand at belly dancing at a diversity social in Detroit back in 2007. He was always so proud of his family and spoke fondly of each of you. May the good memories together bring you comfort at this difficult time.
Although I did not know Jim well, my heart goes out to his family. Simply reading this tribute to Jim gave me such insight into the special person he was. What a blessing to have such a kind and loving soul on this earth. God bless you as you walk this path.
I am so sad to hear of the loss to you and to all of us. Jim was, and I believe still is the best of us. I am retired and living outside of the Chicago area, but I will offer Mass for him tomorrow morning.
Dick Simon
I was privileged to meet Jim and hear him speak of how he introduced the sharing of the state of the heart and house and our Generous Promises to his co-workers and encouraged them to make them a part of their lives. He made a great impression on me. I am so sorry for your loss and believe though that now Jim is closer to you than ever before. May the God of all Consolation be with each of you as you move through this difficult time of grief and loss. Know that my prayers are with you.
Much sympathy and many prayers,
Mary G Germain
While Angels may roam the earth, their permanent home is Heaven. And now Heaven has an angel that will watch over his family, his friends and the hearts of those he touched. Time to rest my dear Friend. Until we meet again Jim.
I wish I could have met Jim in person. He and Patti were avid supporters of Catholic Mobilizing Network’s ministry to end the death penalty and promote restorative justice. Through connections with the Congregation of St. Joseph, Jim chose to strengthen one of its ministries. His story, faith, and passion for life will live on in the memories of so many. CMN is grateful for his accompaniment on this journey of justice. May God grant Jim eternal rest; and his family and friends know consolation, peace, and the grace that God provides in abundance.
Jim was an inspirational leader and I feel privileged to have known him during my career at SSA. My tenure as president of the National Advisory Council of Employees with Disabilities often brought me to Chicago to talk with Jim on improving diversity within the Agency. Jim was dedicated to diversity and I always left our talks with a renewed optimism and passion for helping my fellow coworkers with disabilities. `Jim had a gift of making everyone feel that they were special. I hope we meet again, Jim.
Jim was the best in everything he. He was my boss, mentor, and friend. As I moved through the SSA ranks he was always there for me providing outstanding advice and leadership. He will never be forgotten. He is now “hanging” out with our Lord. My prayers and thoughts go out to Pattie and all of his family.