James (Jim) E. DeVan, 89, of Belleville, IL passed away peacefully Tuesday, October 25, 2022 at St. Paul’s Senior Community Center surrounded by loved ones.
Jim was born on November 21, 1932 to James and Helen DeVan, nee Maurer, in East St Louis, IL. He was a graduate of the 1950 Class of Belleville Township High School. Jim served four years in the United States Air Force as an electronics instructor and radio communications specialist.
Jim married Marylin Hoffmann on June 18, 1954, in Corinth, MS prior to his 15-month deployment overseas. Jim and Marylin celebrated 65 years of marriage prior to her passing on July 25, 2019. Jim and Marylin were blessed with two sons and two daughters.
Jim began his career as a mechanic working for his father at Jimmie DeVan Auto Repair in East St. Louis as a teenager. Jim went into business for himself, opening DeVan Automotive Service in Belleville in 1968. His sons joined him in the business. He continued working until July 25, 2022 when he fell ill. He was active in Independent Garage Owners.
In his spare time, Jim enjoyed fishing, BBQing and caring for his lawn. He was an avid racing fan and participated in many Bass Master’s tournaments. Jim and Marylin loved socializing with their many friends and family throughout their lifetime.
Jim was a devoted husband, father, grandpa, mechanic and friend. Jim was humble, kind, and generous. Jim adored his grandchildren and loved sharing in their joy. He was a friend to everyone, loved by many, and will be terribly missed.
Jim is survived by his:
- Four Children:
- Alan and Dale of Belleville
- Linda Fix (Tom), Carthage MO
- Gail Hunter (Marc), Highland IL
- Grandchildren:
- Allison and Katie Fix
- Alexandra Paulson (fiancée Aramis Johnson)
- Mitchell Paulson
- Will Hunter
- Sisters:
- Joan Barghusen
- Mary DeVan
- Brothers:
- Glenn (Natalie)
- Dan (Kathy)
- Nieces and Nephews
- Countless friends and valued customers
In lieu of flowers, memorials gifts may be made to The Wounded Warrior Project in Jim’s honor.
A visitation will be held from 4:00- 8:00 pm, Friday, November 4, 2022 at Kurrus Funeral Home in Belleville, IL and from 10:00- 11:00 am Saturday, November 5, 2022 at Kurrus Funeral Home in Belleville, IL.
Funeral: Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 am, Saturday, November 5, 2022 at Kurrus Funeral Home, with Dr. Joe Scheets officiating. Private interment at Valhalla Gardens of Memory in Belleville, IL.
7 Comments To "James (Jim) E. DeVan"
#1 Comment By Rick Foree On October 30, 2022 @ 11:09 am
Jim was a long time friend of mine, he graduated High School with my Dad and was one of my mentors as I went through my high performance care stage. Always kind, always gracious and always with a smile on his face. He will be greatly missed. Though I did not know his girls, I did get to know Allen and Dale through the years. May all of the fond memories comfort you, now and in the future. I just returned from a trip to Belleville and am back in Texas. Unfortunately, I will not be able to be back for the funeral, certainly wish that I could be there.
Sincerely, Rick Foree
#2 Comment By Joe & Kathleen Davis On November 2, 2022 @ 8:22 am
DeVan children
Sorry to learn of your father’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
#3 Comment By Janet Isom On November 4, 2022 @ 1:25 pm
To the family of Jim DeVan
My sincerest sympathy on the passing of Jim. We have known both Jim and Marilyn for many years. They have been long time friends (IGO). May they rest in peace.
Janet Isom and Craig Isom
#4 Comment By Tom Gagen On November 6, 2022 @ 1:30 pm
I was so sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. He was a kind and amiable friend who I will miss a lot. I first met Jim probably back in the eighties when a friend recommended him as someone who could fix nearly anything on my vehicle. He was not only a very knowledgeable and capable mechanic, but I came to know him as a friend also. Always with a smile and ready to talk, Jim was the kind of person who impressed without any fanfare or bravado. I will always cherish the time I spent just gabbing in the shop along with Dale and Allen. My prayers and good thoughts will be with all of your family at this time. May God bless.
#5 Comment By Dr. Nancy Ryan Macklin On November 12, 2022 @ 2:31 pm
To Jim’s Family,
Please accept my sympathy at the death of Jim. I knew Jim and his sons only through their business. I was always confident that whatever auto help I needed, they could provide it. Jim was always kind, pleasant and helpful. He will be missed.
Nancy Ryan Macklin
Belleville IL
#6 Comment By David & Cheryl Feucht On November 12, 2022 @ 3:54 pm
Sorry for your loss. I have been a satisfied customer of DeVan Automotive for over 40 years. Mr. DeVan was a man of integrity and intelligence.
#7 Comment By Cece Strand On November 28, 2022 @ 7:51 pm
Linda, Gail. Dale and Allen –
Sending sympathy and prayers on the passing of your Dad, a wonderful man with a welcoming twinkle in his eye. May your many memories of your amazing parents help you through the sadness.
Fondly,
Cece (Voigt) Strand