James E. “Jim” Groppel, 86, entered into the presence of his Lord and Savior on July 30, 2026. He was born on September 4, 1939.
Jim was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 50 years, Sharon Kay Groppel, the love of his life; his son, Johnny Groppel; and his parents, Edgar and Virginia Groppel.
He is survived by his daughter, Teri (Wil) Glidewell of Manchester, Missouri; his son, Scott (Mitzi) Groppel of Eldred, Illinois; his grandchildren, Abby (Steve) Lancaster and Heath Groppel; his three great-grandchildren, Benjamin, Leah, and John Lancaster; his brother, Thomas Groppel of Fieldon, Illinois; and his sister, Janet Heigert of Wood River, Illinois.
Jim proudly served his country in the U.S. Army. He worked for Barton Trucking & Excavating as a truck driver and dispatcher for more than 40 years. Together, Jim and Sharon built a wonderful life in Roxana, where they raised their family and later took over and operated ABLe Handle Company. A graduate of Roxana High School, Class of 1957, Jim remained deeply connected to his hometown. Both he and Sharon were longtime members of Wanda Methodist Church and valued the friendships and sense of community they found there.
Together, Jim and Sharon were a remarkable team. Jim worked hard to provide for his family, while Sharon faithfully held everything together at home. As Jim worked long hours and pursued his many projects, Sharon was the steady presence who created a home filled with love and stability. Jim brought home the paycheck, but Sharon made it a home. Together they built a family, a business, and a life that reflected their shared dedication, perseverance, and devotion to one another.
Never one to sit still, Jim always had a side hustle. Whether selling firewood, plowing snow, delivering rock, grading yards, or driving his red one-ton dump truck that became a familiar sight around the area, he was happiest when he was working and helping others.
Jim looked forward each year to deer season and spending time with his friends at "Yahoo Deer Camp." Some of his greatest memories, however, were made hunting with his son, Scott; daughter-in-law, Mitzi; and grandson, Heath. He especially treasured the opportunity to guide his granddaughter, Abby, as she took her very first deer—a memory they both cherished. When he wasn't in the woods, many weekends were spent cutting firewood and enjoying his beloved farm. Whether in the woods, around the farm, or simply spending time together, Jim valued the special bond he shared with each member of his family.
A resident of Roxana for more than 65 years, Jim was deeply devoted to his community. He served as a volunteer firefighter, was a member of the Roxana Park Board, and served as a Village Trustee for more than 21 years. He was also a 32nd Degree Mason and a Shriner. Every Christmas season, he could be found selling Christmas trees to benefit Shriners Hospitals for Children.
Known simply as "Grops," Jim rarely went anywhere without running into someone who knew him. He loved visiting with people and was always ready with a story or conversation. His generous heart led him to quietly help those in need without seeking recognition. He leaves behind countless friends, neighbors, and family members whose lives were better because they knew him.
Jim's greatest legacy was not the work he did or the offices he held, but the family he loved, the friendships he cherished, and the example of hard work, generosity, and service he leaves behind.
The family is especially grateful to the caregivers and staff at The Villas of Holly Brook, where Jim both adored and was adored by those who cared for him. Their compassion and kindness meant more to our family than words can express. We are also thankful for the loving support provided by Family Hospice.
We are thankful that later in life, Jim accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior, and we find comfort in the promise that this is not goodbye, but until we meet again.
Visitation will be held at Paynic Home for Funerals on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m., with funeral services beginning at 11:00 a.m. Interment will immediately follow at Valhalla Memorial Park Cemetery in Godfrey, Illinois.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children or Family Hospice.
Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life following the burial at the Wood River Moose Lodge.
