James Knoll

James Knoll, 84, passed away on May 30, 2026. Born on November 16, 1941, in Oak Park, Illinois, Jim lived a life marked by hard work, dedication to family, and a positive spirit that touched everyone who knew him. 

Jim grew up in Elmwood Park, Illinois; and graduated from Elmwood Park High School with the Class of 1959. He served as an electrician and was honored by IBEW Local 134 in recognition of his 65 years of dedicated service. He was also a proud member of the Elmwood Park Volunteer Fire Department along with his father Marty and his brother-in-law David Rice. Jim also, for a time, lived and operated a dairy farm in Avoca, Wisconsin. Jim found great joy in gardening, bird watching, and most of all spending time with his grandchildren, creating lasting memories through his warmth, humor, and guidance. 

Those who knew him will remember his cunning sense of humor, positive outlook on life, and the happiness he brought to others through his constant humming and singing. No matter what challenges life presented, when asked how he was doing, Jim would always reply that he was “outstanding”. He was also known for sharing words of wisdom with family and friends. 

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Martin James Knoll and Lucille P. Knoll nee Triphahn; his sister, Diane Halvorsen and her husband John; and his sister-in-law, Marilyn Rice. 

Jim is survived by his wife Linda J. Knoll; his children James A. Knoll, John D. (Donna) Knoll, Julie A. (Mike) Allmon, Joseph M. Knoll, Martin C. (Becky) Knoll, Samuel R. (Kris) Knoll, and Jennifer L. (Ryan) Cumpston; 12 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, brother Richard (Lois) Knoll, sister Lucille (Fred) Piskator, and his brother-in-law, David J. Rice. Jim will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, his strong work ethic, his kindness, and his ability to bring a smile to those around him. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched and the family he loved so dearly.

Visitation will be on Thursday, June 4, 2026 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at The Elms Funeral Home, 7600 W. Grand Ave., Elmwood Park, IL 60707. Funeral service to begin at 12 p.m. at the funeral home with interment to follow at Elmwood Cemetery, River Grove, IL.

Memorial donations may be made in Jim’s memory to Tunnels to Towers Foundation - please use link below.