Jim Grosso, 73, a longtime resident of Oak Park, died peacefully at home on July 1, 2022. Born on Aug. 29, 1948 in Chicago, Illinois, he attended grammar school at Our Lady of the Angels and survived the infamous OLA school fire. He later attended Fenwick High School, then moved with his wife, Mary, to Oak Park in 1974, where he has been a long-running participant in the Farmers Market jam circle.
The son of a plumber and tradesman, he brought passion and professionalism to every facet of his life. He enjoyed a successful career as a consultant, loved and supported his children and grandchildren, and brought joy to many as a singer, musician, and multi-instrumentalist through his involvement in the Vanguard Drum and Bugle Corps, and the musical groups Thursday’s Child, Grosso Family Band, and Northern Skyline.
Jim is preceded by his parents, George and Adrienne Ryan Grosso, and his friends, peers, and teachers who lost their lives in the OLA school fire.
He is survived by Mary Grosso (nee Prodehl), his musical partner and wife of 52 years; his sons and musical proteges, Gabe, Adam, and Michael; his grandsons, James, Mason, and Dylan; his brothers, Frank and Tom; and his sister, Carole.
Memorial visitation will be held on Saturday, July 30 from 1 to 4 p.m. Arrangements handled by Zimmerman Harnett Funeral Home in Forest Park.
