Dr. James Bernard "Jim" Chidester, born on March 5, 1936, peacefully passed away at home on March 19, 2025, in Ocala, Florida, at the age of 89, with his devoted wife, Judy, by his side.

Jim was the beloved son of Ora and Sylvia Chidester and brother of Ora(Skip) Chidester III. He is survived by his wife, Judy; his sister, Patricia Muehl; children from his first marriage: Lisa Kirk (Brad), Juliet (Jodi) Voy (Rich), Aime Chidester (Ed), Jim Chidester Jr., Suzanne Chidester, Jason Chidester (Julie); and his children: Tyler Losik, and Courtney Schad (Brando). His legacy continues through his cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought him immense joy throughout his life.

Jim attended St. Paul of the Cross school and St. George High School. A gifted athlete, Jim played as a running back for Michigan State University’s 1955 Rose Bowl championship team and was awarded his cherished Rose Bowl ring. His talent on the field earned him an offer from the Green Bay Packers, where he participated in exhibition games before pursuing his childhood dream of becoming a dentist. He went on to attend Marquette University, earning his dental degree. Following dental school, he served as an officer in the U.S. Navy, stationed in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. He lived in Park Ridge for over 30 years where he built a dental practice and was deeply embedded with the community as a parent participating in PTA, helping put on and acting in Field School plays and coaching sports.

Jim was a man of great character, humor, and was deeply devoted to his dental patients. He was also adventurous in exploring many entrepreneurial ventures. He was never one to embrace retirement fully. His passion for dentistry and unwavering commitment to helping his patients remained a constant throughout his life.

Funeral mass will be held at St. Paul of the Cross Church (320 S Washington Ave, Park Ridge, IL 60068) on Saturday, April 5th at 12:00 PM. A Celebration of Life Luncheon will follow at Gibsons Bar and Steakhouse (2105 Spring Road, Oak Brook, IL 60523) at 2:00 PM.

Interment will take place privately at Highland Memorial Park in Ocala, Florida, where Jim will be honored with full military honors.

Dr. James Bernard Chidester will be remembered for his remarkable life, unwavering dedication to family and his patients, and the kindness he shared with all who knew him.

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