James Draper

James B. Draper, affectionately known as J.D., passed away on October 21, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of generosity, support, and love. Born on August 17, 1936, James spent his life in Kankakee, Illinois, with brief periods in Ohio, Paris, St. Anne, Bradley, and Bourbonnais. Jim married Sigrid (Conklin) Draper on June 8, 1957. A skilled mechanic and business owner by trade, James was known for his charismatic personality that endeared him to everyone he met. Jim worked for Hammes Ford Garage in the1960’s and then bought and ran Draper’s Texaco Service Station from 1967-68 through the early 1980’s. He also ran The Cypress Tavern, from the late 1970’s to 2016, with his wife Siggy that was opened in the 1930’s by Siggy’s father Harry Conklin. His love for family was paramount, and he was a devoted father to Dawn (Gary), and … children Michelle (Harold) and James H. (Becky). He was also a cherished “Pappy Jim” to his great-grandchildren Norah, Aisley, Maddyn, Beau, Kyden, and Quinn. In all Jim had 7 grandchildren and 14 great children. Jim was a man of many passions, from being an avid bowler and lifelong boater to an enthusiastic tinkerer and fisherman. His fishing trips to Canada with friends and snowmobiling escapades in the North Woods with his beloved wife Siggy and daughter Dawn created memories that will be treasured forever. Jim’s love for adventure took him from the bowling alleys of Marycrest Bowling Alley and the Marycrest Cubs Club to the bright lights of Las Vegas and around the country competing in bowling tournaments. In many trips to LasVegas, he and Siggy enjoyed shows by legends like Elvis Presley and Wayne Newton. Jim was a lifelong Chicago Cubs fan. Jim’s spirit of adventure and love for life were infectious. Jim and Siggy had many years of vacationing with daughter Dawn, her spouse and children. 25 years of snowmobing trips to Wisconsin, 40 years of boating on Tablerock Lake, and years sharing swimmining and boating on the Iroquois/Kankakee River with trailers on the river’s edge in Riggs Grove in Aroma Park. A faithful member of St. Rose of Lima Church in Kankakee, James lived by the words of Philippians 4:13: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." His unwavering faith and supportive nature were pillars for his family and friends. Preceded in death by his loving wife Sigrid, his parents Bernard and Lola Margaret, his brother Jack, and daughter Allison, James leaves behind a family deeply grateful for his life. Jim was known as “the Candy Man” during his 2 1/2 years at Citidel Nursing Home. He always had a bag of butterscotch drops and peppermint kisses which he freely shared with everyone. He later carried a bag of dumdum suckers he shared in the nursing home. Jim”s favorite sayings were: “well, that is that” after finishing a meal or task, and “have a Good Time!” In these moments of reflection, we encourage you to share your own memories and photos of James on his memorial page, celebrating the joy and love he brought to this world. As per his request, A private Mass and Celebration of Life will be held at a later date with immediate family that were present during life, to allow out of town family to be present. Donations can be made to Citidel Nursing Home of Kankakee for the refurbishment of the Resident Patio, which Jim loved to spend time in during his extended stay at Citidel Nursing Home. A Huge thank you to the staff at Citidel Nursing Home, Kankakee site. They are the most caring and loving people. Jim was very fond of so many staff at Citidel, we are forever grateful for you! So to quote Jim with his passing, “well, that is that” and “ have a good time”, till we see you again.