James O. Smith, age 56, a lifelong resident of the Wheaton area, died suddenly Sunday, January 27, due to complications of his battle with cancer, at Loyola Medical Center in Maywood . He was born August 19, 1956 at Delnor Hospital in St. Charles to James and Janet Smith.

Jim married his childhood sweetheart, Gerri Olichwier on April 27, 1974. He worked for over 30 years for Best Way Rug and Furniture Cleaners in Wheaton.

He loved to hang out with his family and attend car shows. He enjoyed woodworking projects and working on cars. Jim lived to spend every weekend with his grandkids.

He is survived by his wife, Geraldine Smith, three children, Jim (Dawn) Smith of Winfield, Jesse (Sammy) Smith of Winfield, and Jolene Smith of Winfield, two grandchildren, Tyler and Alex, his parents, James (Dee) Smith and Janet Dean, one sister, Debra (Dan) Lindquist of West Chicago, brothers, David and Dallas and his granddog, Luda.

He was preceded in death by two siblings, Marjorie Ann Smith and Billy Ray Smith.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, January 31, 2013 from 3 to 9 pm at Hultgren Funeral Home, 304 N. Main St., Wheaton, IL 60187. A time of sharing will be held at 8:30.

Family and friends may sign a guest book at hultgrenfh.com. For more information, please call Hultgren Funeral Home at 630-668-0027.