James T. Duffy

James T. Duffy obituary

James T. Duffy

James Duffy Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Cooney Funeral Home - Park Ridge on Jul. 6, 2025.

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"Duf" was a man who faced life's challenges with extraordinary spirit and spunk.

Diagnosed with diabetes at the young age of 18, he chose not to let the disease define

him but rather embraced life wholeheartedly, calling himself "lucky."

Jim lived, as he wished, with courage, determination and meaningful connections. Friends and family

were his source of joy and strength. He deeply cherished his wife, Susan, who was not only his wife of 39 years

but partner in life and lifelong a caretaker even in his most difficult hours. Their bond was a testament

to enduring love and devotion.

Coach's passions shaped the man we all admired. Jim liked football, as a matter of fact he once told

Susan, "I don't like football, I love it." Golf brought him both leisure and fellowship. He found special

fulfillment in commiserating with lifelong friends, sharing football tales with those who knew him best.

Those bonds were never measured or ranked- they were equally valuable to Coach. He treasured his pets, Molly and Daisy.

Jim was guided by love, loyalty, laughter, and friendships. His interest and knowledge of football, politics, golf, history

and anything "Chicago" was remarkable. Jim found immense happiness in his relationships with friends, always eager

to share a laugh, a beer, and stories dotted always by colorful expletives. Through every challenge and triumph, Jim

embodied resilience and stubbornness. He taught us that life is not about the adversities we face; but the way we choose

to overcome them.

Duf's warmth, humor, and colorful language will forever be etched in our memories. While we mourn his passing,

we celebrate the incredible life he lived.

Jim, you will always remain in our hearts, an inspiration and a guiding light.

Instead of flowers, donate to the American Diabetes Association, enjoy a good round of golf, read a history book and cheer for the Bears.

Memorial on Sunday, July 13th from 2-7 PM (Funeral service at 5 p.m.) at Cooney's Funeral Home, 625 Busse Hwy., Park Ridge (847-685-1002). Interment private.

For info Cooney Funeral Home, (847) 685-1002 - www.cooneyfuneralhome.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Sign James Duffy's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

July 26, 2025

Robert Neustadt posted to the memorial.

July 14, 2025

Chuck Seivert posted to the memorial.

July 13, 2025

Tom Schumacher posted to the memorial.

Robert Neustadt

July 26, 2025

So lucky I got to meet Jim a few times . Straight talking and warm . A smart guy , especially for marrying Susan . A fun couple , good friends and perfect life partners . Lois and I offer our most heartfelt condolences . May his memory be a blessing .

Chuck Seivert

July 14, 2025

I will forever be thankful for coach Duffys' guidance and friendship as a member of St.Ritas football team to the present. RIP Coach Duffy.

Tom Schumacher

July 13, 2025

Good journey Coach you will always be my hero

Raymond L Jagielski

July 11, 2025

Coach Duffy was a tough, fair, and a leader for his players to follow not only on the field but in life too. His leadership and coaching ability was fundamental to our success in winning the 1970 Chicago Prep Bowl. May God bless you and I give my condolences to his wife Susan.
Judge Raymond L Jagielski (ret)

Sal and Pat Cirrincione

July 10, 2025

Glad we had Duf in our lives - and his wife Susan! Will always be missed

Group of 10 Memorial Trees

Bob and Tracy Prosi

Sent Sympathy Gifts including Trees

Gary Noncek

July 7, 2025

Our deepest sympathy and
Sincere condolences.
The family of Jerry Murphy

Showing 1 - 7 of 7 results

Cooney Funeral Home - Park Ridge

625 Busse Highway, Park Ridge, IL 60068

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Sign James Duffy's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

July 26, 2025

Robert Neustadt posted to the memorial.

July 14, 2025

Chuck Seivert posted to the memorial.

July 13, 2025

Tom Schumacher posted to the memorial.