James J. Jilot, 89, of Sturgeon Bay was united with the Lord on Monday, March 7, 2016 while surrounded by his loving family. He was born on February 5, 1927 to Frank and Mary (Renard) Jilot. On February 3, 1944 he married Fyrn Guelette at St. Michael's Catholic Church in Misere. "Jim", as he was known to his friends and co-workers was a kind, loving, hardworking father, grandfather and great grandfather. He lived his life as a true example of doing things the right wayall the time. Together with his high school sweetheart Fyrn, they were the epitome of the meaning of true love and dedication. In 2014 they celebrated a milestone of their 70th wedding anniversary with family and friends and ultimately ended up sharing 72 years of faithfulness to each other - together to the end. James had many work experiences and hobbies throughout his prosperous lifetime. He worked as a farmer, milk truck driver, custodian, fabricator, tool repair man, welder, fitter, and orchard and produce grower. James and Fyrn also owned and operated Jilot's General Store in Rosiere for 16 years. Jim retired from Peterson Builders Inc. in 1989. In his retirement years he enjoyed tinkering in his workshop, creating useful inventions to help make both his and Mom's life a little easier. He took great pride in having a spotless car as well as all of his tools and equipment. He especially looked forward to hopping on his John Deere zero-turn lawnmower each week and cutting the lawn. James is survived by his wife of 72 years, Fyrn and their loving children, John (Linda) Jilot of Allouez, Barbara Jilot of Fond du Lac and Jerry (Diane) Jilot of DePere. He is further survived by eight grandchildren, Todd Jilot, Troy (Sheila) Jilot, Jeff (Trish) Jilot, Chris (Nicole) Slavik, Jeremy (Chrissy) Slavik, Mardee (Jeff) Blattner, Brett Jilot and Tessa Jilot. He is also survived by nine great grandchildren, his brother, Richard (Ann) Jilot, sisters-in-law, Lucy Jilot, Lucille Vandertie and Sally (Bill) Wagner and brother-in-law, Gary (Karen) Guelette. James was preceded in death by his parents, sister Mary Alice, three brothers, Lloyd, Frank Jr. and Norman; also numerous in-laws and great granddaughter Serena. Family and friends may visit at Corpus Christi Catholic Church in Sturgeon Bay on Monday, March 14, 2016 after 9:00AM, until the Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00AM. RYAN FUNERAL HOME, De Pere is assisting the family. Please go to www.ryanfh.com to send online condolences to the family. A memorial fund had been established for the Fr. Tony Birdsall Prayer and Reflection Garden at Corpus Christi Church.