James (Jim) Robert McGrogan Sr. was called home to his Lord on December 11, 2018 after an extended illness. Born on July 11, 1960 (7-11…what a lucky number! ) he lived his life to the fullest…with so many friends and family that we have a hard time remembering them all.
He was first and foremost dedicated to Tina Marie Caparell, the love of his life for 24 years and to his children; James Robert McGrogan Jr. (22) and Victoria Lou McGrogan (20) who remain behind to honor his memory. Along with Tina, Jim most enjoyed spending time with his children and their friends…traveling, laughing and loving! He was a dedicated and enthusiastic coach at East Side Little League and volunteer at Nuner, Jefferson and Adams for many years.
Jim was blessed to be called Dad by so many young people that they cannot be named (you know who you are) and many of them now have children who couldn’t wait to see Grandpa! The family room, backyard pool and fire pit were his favorite places to relax and no one ever needed an invitation to spend some time hanging out. Unexpected guests were just a great excuse to throw more food on the grill!
Jim loved classic rock and country music (with a little sprinkling of other flavors here and there) and whether at home, a concert or a “party with the band”, he always liked it turned up to the max! Before succumbing to ill health, Jim was a dedicated employee at Cressy and Everett/Newmark Grubb. He spent his adult life fixing stuff; earning himself the nickname “MacGyver” for his ability to get the job done no matter what!
He was always busy in the basement, yard or garage…repairing, remodeling or just tinkering with something. And wherever he was, he made sure that he had rigged a cable outlet so he could always watch his beloved Cubs, Bears and above all, Notre Dame! Jim lived his life out loud and didn’t bother with regrets.
We would figure tomorrow out together, but he was damned well gonna enjoy today! Whenever faced with a decision to buy something or do something that could make another person happy or fulfill a need, his famous line was “It’s just money, I’ll make more! ” His generous spirit will be missed every day in so many small ways.
Jim is survived by his father Robert J. (Sherri) McGrogan, parents’ in-law Stan and Rosanne Caparell, brothers Thomas (Heather) McGrogan and Robert M. McGrogan, nephews Adam and Austin McGrogan and many extended family members. He was preceded in death by his mother Marion L. McGrogan, paternal grandparents Maurice and Katheryn McGrogan and maternal grandparents John (Jim) and Stella Kasuba. A memorial service will be held at Palmer’s Funeral Home, 2528 E Mishawaka Ave, South Bend on December 29th at 11 am with family and friends invited to visit an hour prior.
In lieu of flowers, donations to assist the family with memorial expenses may be made at Palmer’s.
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