James J. Kantak

October 17, 1965 - January 17, 2022

It is with heavy hearts that we celebrate the life of James J. Kantak, 56, who passed away on Monday, January 17th. He was incredibly loved and cherished by all those who had the privilege of knowing him. James was born on October 17th, 1965, in Oak Park, IL. Son of Diane M. Kantak (Zito) and the late Francis C. Kantak. Jim grew up in Chicago, IL where he attended grade school and high school. Jim continued his education and experience in the Tool industry, ultimately fine tuning his trade to become a specialty tool engineer. Throughout his career, he established multiple tooling businesses which specialized in engineering and manufacturing custom tools for the Aerospace and Automotive industries. Some of his greatest accomplishments were his contributions to the success and legacy of Taurus Tool and Engineering in Batavia, IL. and GWS Tool Group. Jim’s smiling face, humor and quiet leadership style will be greatly missed throughout his companies. Jim truly had an eye for mechanics, which played a huge role in his hobbies outside of work. He spent many hours restoring and customizing classic cars and Harley Davidson Motorcycles. He was also a dedicated Black Hawks fan, avid golfer and enjoyed skiing and ice skating with his daughter and close friends. He enjoyed the simple pleasures of life with a cup of coffee in hand and a bag of gummy bears close by. Jim was incredibly driven and dedicated. There was never a project or idea that was too big for him to tackle. If there was a will he would always find a way. His life is a reflection of what hardwork and genuine brilliance can create. James left a mark on this world and will be remembered fondly in this life and the next. His wisdom and passion proved contagious across the ages only to be exceeded by his warm heartedness and kindness to all. He leaves behind his daughter, Maria Kantak, Sisters Cheryl M. Green (Eric Lenhart), and Eileen D. Frank (Keith), Nieces Alissa R. Borowicz (James) and Robyn A. Frank and great nephews Damond and Ethan Borowicz. He was predeceased by his grandmother, Eleanor Zito in 2016. Family and friends are welcome to gather for a visitation on Sunday, January 30th from 12:30-3:30 with a service to follow at Yurs Funeral Home of Saint Charles, 405 East Main Street (Corner of Rt.64 and Rt.25) As a survivor of Ameloblastoma, donations in Jim’s memory may be made to the NIH (National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research) 31 Center Drive, Bethesda MD 20892. www.nidcr.nih.govGuest BookShareEmailPrint