- Date Of Birth: September 25, 1944
- Date Of Death: December 13, 2020
- State: Illinois
James Lee Wallbaum, 76, of Ashland, IL, died Sunday, Dec. 13, 2020, at his home.
He was born Sept. 25, 1944, at home in Pleasant Plains, IL, the son of Frank E. and Anna H. (Whelan) Wallbaum. He married Elizabeth L. Jones on July 17, 1965, at St. Augustine Catholic Church in Ashland, and she preceded him in death on Sept. 25, 2019.
James is survived by three children, Todd (Tanya) Wallbaum, Lisa (John) Butler, and Travis (Emily) Wallbaum, all of Ashland; four grandchildren, Natane (Corbin) Lenaway of Hopedale, Chenoa Butler of Roodhouse, and Bailey and Sydney Wallbaum of Ashland; three great grandchildren, Lindy, Hudson, and Hazel; one sister, Mary Ann (deceased husband, James) Edwards of Ashland; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents; son, James Trent in infancy; and brother, John “Bud” (surviving wife, Linda Wallbaum of Jacksonville).
After graduating from Pleasant Plains High School, Jim worked for Wright Filling Station in Ashland, Buckhard Sand and Gravel, and even hauled trash before starting his career as a plumber working for Edwards Plumbing and Heating in Ashland.
Jim started his own business, Wallbaum Plumbing and Heating with his son Todd in 1984, where he worked with his sons Todd and Travis throughout the years and continued to work until his death.
Jim was a talented plumber and enjoyed building things with his hands. He especially loved spending time on his small farm with family. He had a contagious smile and was always noted for working hard and “having fun”.
Jim enjoyed racing, boating, fishing, and spending time with his family and friends at Walby’s Place. He also loved watching his children and grandchildren play sports.
