James Patrick Huffman's Obituary
Huffman, James Patrick, most recently of Hollywood, FL and formerly of Chicago, IL passed away on December 7, 2019.
Jim was born January 13, 1939 to the late Maurice Huffman and Lutie (Patrick) Huffman. He attended Lane Tech College Prep and worked after school as an usher at the Chicago Theater. At 17 years old he joined the US Army and was stationed in Germany where he proudly served our country for 3 years.
His passion for the transportation industry led him to driving a bus for the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA). He then studied at Chicago Technical College.
Jim’s long-term career was a draftsman, notably working as a Structural Designer at Sargent & Lundy Engineers. In the early 80’s he was hired to assist in the engineering design of the Epcot Ball in Orlando, FL. His work was highly respected and will live on through the hundreds of railings on high rise buildings throughout South Florida, Bahamas and as far as Hawaii.
Jim and Sophie married in 1966, then moved to the east coast of Florida in 1982. Although he enjoyed the sunshine, his heart has remained loyal to “sweet home Chicago”. Jim had many hobbies and interests, and was an avid reader. His nostalgia for history led him to this vast collecting of memorabilia.
Left behind are his wife of 53 years, Sophie, daughter Cathy (Larry) Brackett, and son Maurice (Sheila); 3 grandchildren, Lindsay, Lauren and Rowan; 6 great-grandchildren, Caden, Nora, Charlotte, Hadley, Carter and Nolan; and several loving nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his brother John (Jack) Huffman (WWII veteran) and sister-in-law, Lois Huffman.
In lieu of flowers please send donations to The Holocaust Documentation and Education Center at HDEC.org where he generously volunteered his time.
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