Stewart E. "Stew" James

Sherman – Stewart E. “Stew” James, 82, of Sherman, IL, passed away at his home on July 22, 2012. He was born on November 26, 1929 in Springfield, IL, the only child of the late Charles and Helen G. James. He married Betty L. Loafman on March 26, 1950.
He attended school in Missouri and after his family moved to Springfield, he graduated from Lanphier High School in 1948. During his high school days he was a member of the Lanphier Lions baseball team.
He worked at Franklin Life Insurance Co. in the Univac department in several capacities until taking over the family business, Spillway Bowling Lanes, in 1962. His son, David, later joined the business. Spillway was destroyed by fire in 1984. An existing bowling alley was purchased in 1985 and became the new Spillway Bowling Lanes. He was inducted into the Springfield Bowlers Hall of Fame in 1986 and the Illinois Bowlers Hall of Fame in 2004. He served in a variety of positions within the bowling community.
He enjoyed traveling, fishing, boating, hunting, golfing, dancing, dogs, hot rods and motorcycles. He was an avid Cubs fan. He was always helping others, never met a stranger, happy to buy you a beer and talk bowling. He loved his family, adored his grandchildren and enjoyed a special relationship with his great-granddaughter.
He is survived by his wife Betty; a son, David James of Camdenton, MO; a daughter, Sandra K. James and son-in-law, Bruce R. Angleman of Williamsville; five Grandchildren, Alexander James (Lisa Coe), Nicole James, Anastasia James, Emerson James, Ashley James and a Great-Granddaughter, Jailynn Marissa James.
Visitation: 10 a.m.-12 Noon, Thursday, July 26, 2012 at Staab Funeral Home.
Funeral Service: 12 Noon, Thursday, July 26, 2012 at Staab Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Oak Ridge Cemetery.
Memorial Contributions may be made to Memorial Home Services Hospice, 720 N. Bond St., Springfield, IL 62702; Alzheimer’s Association, 2921 Greenbriar Dr., Springfield, IL 62704; or any organization of your choice.