James E. Nystedt, age 63, died at Central DuPage Hospital Friday, May 16. He was born June 25, 1944 in Milaca, MN.

Jim spent all his adult life promoting his Swedish heritage and culture. He was Past Master of Wheaton Lodge #269, Past President of DuPage Shrine Club, Past District Master of Vasa Order of America Lake Michigan District No. 8 and past board member of Scandinavian Park Inc. LLC (Vasa Park). He was also a member of Scottish Rite Valley of Freeport and Medinah Shrine Valley of Chicago. Jim was an active participant in all the organizations for the betterment of community and mankind. In addition to his community and philanthropic commitments, he was the doting "Papa" of his grandchildren and would drop everything for their desires. He will be sorely missed by family and friends.

Jim is survived by his wife of 40 years, MaryJean, nee Pashek; sons, Mitchell (Wendy) Nystedt, of Morris, IL and Matthew Nystedt (fiance' Ellen) of Gurnee, IL; and his grandchildren, Haley, Molly, and Trevor Nystedt, of Morris, IL. He is also survived by sister, Sylvia (Glenn) Baldwin of Downers Grove, IL and brothers, Roger (Barbara) Nystedt of Acworth, GA, Charles Nystedt of Lisle, IL, Philip (Theresa) Nystedt of Bloomington, IL, Kevin Nystedt of Plainfield, IL and Keith (Sue) Nystedt of Naperville, IL; special cousin Betty (Harold) House of Princeton, MN; and aunt Doris (Kendall) Lehman of Minneapolis, MN.

He was preceded in death by parents, Vernon & Margaret, nee Blixt, Nystedt Filipello.

A memorial visitation and service will be held Wednesday, May 21st, from 4-9 PM at Hultgren Funeral Home, 304 N Main Street, Wheaton, IL. A Masonic Service will begin at 7 PM followed by the funeral service, officiated by Pastor Jeff Chubb.

Memorials are to be sent to Vasa National Archives, Bishop Hill, IL or Scandinavian Park Inc. LLC, 7011 Sierra Ct, Darien, IL 60561.