James E. Vinzant, Sr., 81, peacefully passed away at his home on Tuesday, February 16, 2016. He was born on August 28, 1934 in Rock Island, Illinois to Virgil and Arlene (DePaepe) Vinzant. James served our country in the United States Air Force from 1952-1956. James met Dorothy Rennolet while working at Servus Rubber in Rock Island, IL. They later married on September 4, 1965 in Rock Island. He was a lifelong farmer and also worked at Dura Auto in Stockton, Illinois.

James is survived by his wife; children: David Abel of Kent, IL, Christina Pascoe of Arnold, MO, James Vinzant, Jr. of Lena, and Judith Vinzant of Iowa City, IA; his four legged buddy – "Buster"; grandchildren: Shelby Pascoe, Tyler Vinzant, Edward Abel, Morgan Vinzant; great grandson, Corey James Vinzant; Siblings: Kenneth Vinzant, Jackie Vinzant, Jane Hill, Donny Leif, Jackie Wibbens, Marjorie Musser, Pamela Leif, and John Leif.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his Ma and Pa Depaepe, sister, Jean Thompson, nephew, Mike Thompson, brother, Wayne Leif, and mother and father -in-law Edward and Dorothy Rennolet.

He enjoyed fishing, gardening, listening to 30's and 40's music, watching classic movies and T.V. shows. He was a history buff and enjoyed watching the Chicago Cubs and the local high school sports. James especially loved spending time with his grandchildren and family.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.