James Benson Osborn, age 85, went to be with the Lord on December 29, 2016 surrounded by his family.He was born on September 10, 1931, in Granite City, Illinois, son of Annis Mildred (Benson) and James B. Osborn, who had both preceded him in death.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Jane L. (Downin) Osborn. They were married in London Mills, Illinois, on June 7, 1953. He is also survived by his daughter, Karen S. Cole, who resides in Naples, Florida and his son Kevin T. Osborn, and wife, Gloria, who reside in Galesburg, Illinois. James is also survived by his three adored grandchildren, Kyle J. Osborn, Ryan T. Osborn, and Kirsten H. Osborn, all of Galesburg, Illinois.
He was preceded in death by two brothers and one sister, Tom Osborn, Bernard Osborn, and Harriett Rollins.
He served in the United States Army from July 15, 1952 to June 8, 1954.
He founded Galesburg Communications, Inc. in 1962, a family owned business, which he retired from in June 1996. Earlier he had retired from Admiral Corporation in 1971.
He loved to spend time with his grandchildren. Jim’s hobbies included, boating, fishing, and he was also an avid Amateur Ham radio operator for many years.
Graveside service will be 11 a.m. Tuesday, January 3, 2017 at East Linwood Cemetery. Rev. Jim Ecklund will officiate. There will be no visitation. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Hinchliff-Pearson-West Galesburg Chapel is handling arrangements for the family. Online condolences may be made at www.h-p-w.com.