Obituary of Captain James Meyer

STERLING – Captain James F. Meyer, of Sterling, died Sunday, April 14, 2024 at his home surrounded by his family.

   Jim was born December 9, the son of Isadore and Marie (Napadano) Meyer.  He graduated from Alexian Brothers School of Nursing and went on to become an anesthetist.  His time as an anesthetist afforded him the opportunity to work at many hospitals throughout northern Illinois.  In addition, Jim had an extensive history in the Navy.  Captain Meyer’s assignments included several Naval hospitals, as well as shipboard assignments from aircraft carriers to submarines.  As a Navy diver, Jim had tours of duty at the Naval Coastal Systems Laboratory, the experimental diving unit in Washington D.C., and the submarine training facility among others. His nautical life passion took him on many adventures. One of his more distinguished adventures included living for 6 months in an underwater habitat with Dr. Bond studying saturation diving.

   On June 26, 1987, he married the love of his life LuAnn Rekenthaler. Together they travelled to many places where they collected many treasures and memories. From sailing, to camping to scuba diving there was never a shortage of stories. 

   Jim Enjoyed his two schnauzers, Sailor and Skipper, sailing, tinkering in the garage, dancing, scuba diving and playing many instruments. He also enjoyed being on the Task Force Team and bomb squad. When asked if he was ever anxious about denoting a bomb his response was “nope, you’re either right, or it’s not your problem anymore.”

   Survivors include his wife, LuAnn, two daughters, Chandra (Ryne) Meyer-Howard and Chelsey (Fernando) Ramirez, one son Garrett Volz, and two grandsons, Aiden Volz and Camden Volz, all of Sterling. Sisters  Donna Geel of Bradley, Judy Endress of Kankakee as well as several nieces and nephews. 

   He was preceded in death by his parents. 

   “If a man will learn to pray, let him go to sea”

   Celebration of the Mass of Christian Burial will be 10AM Thursday April 18, 2024 at St. Mary’s Church in Sterling, with Reverend James Keenan, Celebrant, officiating. Visitation will be 5PM-7PM Wednesday April 17, 2024 at Schilling Funeral Home & Cremation. Burial will take place at a later date in the Rock Island National Cemetery. 

   Memorials have been established at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Newman Central Catholic High School, and Rock River Hospice and Home.

   Condolences may be sent to www.schillingfuneralhome.com