James W. Cobb,80, of O’Fallon, Illinois born October 25, 1936 in Lowell, Ohio, died peacefully at his home on Tuesday, June 6, 2017.

Jim was a proud veteran of the U.S. Air Force, serving his country for 22 years including two rotations in the Vietnam War. During his time in Vietnam, he was a decorated pilot flying many dangerous missions designed to protect the troops on the ground. After retiring in 1982, he began a second career as a computer teacher in O’Fallon School District 90 where he worked for 18 years.Jim was also an active member of the American Legion Fischer-Sollis Post 137.

Jim was preceded in death by his amazing wife, Iris; parents, Carl and Celia Cobb; and younger brother, Jack.

Jim was adored by his four daughters, Michelle (Mark)Munie, Susan (Wayne) Parkinson, Christie (Ken) Thomas, and Jennifer (Jason) Boyce. He was also the proud grandfather (“Poppy”) of eight grandchildren, Jason Cobb, Emilee Gustafson, Josh Parkinson, Annie Parkinson, Connor Kowalski, Molly Boyce, Jack Boyce, and Sam Boyce.

Jim loved sports and spent many summers managing, announcing, and supporting American Legion Baseball in O’Fallon. Every chance he got, he would return to his hometown of Columbus OH to attend an Ohio State Buckeyes Football Game and watch the Marching Band perform in the pregame Skull Session. Go Buckeyes!

Jim loved to read; especially books on American history, politics, and mystery novels. Every morning you could find him at the “Office” in downtown O’Fallon enjoying time with his best friends – solving the world’s problems.His entire family and friends already miss his unconditional love and sense of humor which he kept until the very end.

Memorials may be made to Hospice of Southern Illinois (https://hospice.org/donate/). Condolences may be extended to the family online at www.schildknechtfh.com.

Visitation will be held from 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm on Saturday, June 10, 2017 at Schildknecht Funeral Home, 301 South Lincoln Avenue, O’Fallon, IL 62269.

Funeral service will be held at the funeral home at 2:00 pm on Saturday, June 10, 2017 with Pastor Rick Hodshire officiating.

Burial will follow at O’Fallon City Cemetery, O’Fallon, IL with full military honors.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Schildknecht Funeral Home.

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