Obituaries

James Milan Crnovich, age 81, of West Chicago, Illinois, passed away on April 4, 2026, after a short illness, surrounded by his loved ones.

He was born on July 23, 1944, in Chicago, Illinois, to Milan Crnovich and Anna (Baker) Crnovich, both of whom preceded him in death. He lost his father at the age of 16 and carried a deep respect for him throughout his life, along with the values of doing the right thing and showing kindness instilled by both of his parents.

James proudly served in the United States Army, including time stationed in Germany. He often said he felt lucky to have been drafted, as his service shaped his sense of respect, discipline, and teamwork.

He dedicated over 30 years to the City of Chicago Streets and Sanitation Department, where he worked his way up from a garbage man to a foreman. His work often required long hours during snowstorms, block parties, and holiday cleanups, and he took great pride in seeing each job through and serving the city he grew up in.

He will be remembered for his kindness, steady presence, and the simple joys he found in everyday life. His greatest joy was spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He enjoyed Scrabble and crossword puzzles, loved trivia and World War II history, and was an avid reader who frequently visited the St. Charles library, especially enjoying mystery and crime novels. He rarely missed a day exercising at the West Chicago ARC Center and was a proud founder of the “ROMEO” club (Retired Old Men Exercising Occasionally). And he never passed up the chance to have bacon.

James cherished his childhood memories—playing little league, swimming, fishing with his father, and spending long days outdoors until the streetlights came on. He fondly remembered trips to Lincoln Park, Lake Michigan, neighborhood candy and hobby stores, and the Lane Court Theater. He also enjoyed time in Peru, Illinois, with his mother’s family and helping her bake, especially enjoying the heels of fresh-baked bread.

After high school, he spent time traveling west with friends, including a memorable year working for the U.S. Forest Service in the Black Hills of South Dakota. He lived in a cabin and embraced the outdoors, taking pride in the hard work and self-reliance that experience gave him. Those early years brought adventure and resilience, and left a lasting impact on him.

He married Linda in 1971. Though they later divorced, they remained close over the years. He also maintained meaningful relationships with his former in-laws, Larry and Tina Manter, often helping with grocery shopping and taking them to doctor’s appointments. He remained close with his former brother-in-law, Larry Jr., who described him as a one-of-a-kind man. His son-in-law, Grant, often spoke of the close bond they shared, saying he “lucked out in the in-law department.”

In 2013, he met Sue Fenoglio, and together they shared many happy years, including time spent traveling and caring for his granddaughter. He admired her kindness and her ability to see the best in everyone.

He is survived by his daughter, Amber (Grant) Bales, and his two grandchildren, Shae Milan Atkins and Greenlee Bales. He is also survived by his former spouse, Linda Hahn (Carl), his siblings Patsy (late husband Daniel Ryan) and Barbara (late husband Wally Rich), along with many extended family members and loved ones. He is also survived by his long-time companion, Sue Fenoglio, who shared in his life.

He was preceded in death by his sister Judy, his sister Kay, and his brother Nick (Rebecca).

He often said, “life is good,” a reflection of his outlook and appreciation for the moments that mattered most to him.

Visitation will be held on Friday, April 24, 2026, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at Yurs Funeral Home, St. Charles, Illinois. A prayer service will conclude the visitation.

A funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at 10:30 AM at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, Geneva, Illinois. A luncheon will follow, where family and friends are invited to gather and share memories.

He will be forever loved, always remembered, and deeply missed.

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