Mr. James “Jim” J. Hardine, 71, of Galesburg, Illinois, passed away peacefully at 12:35 p.m. Saturday, May 9, 2026, at OSF St. Mary Medical Center, surrounded by the love of his family.
Jim was born August 11, 1954, in Galesburg, the son of Harold James “Jim” and Marilyn Mae (Sherwood) Hardine. He graduated from Galesburg High School in 1972, where his lifelong love of music and the arts first flourished. Jim proudly participated in the “Singing Streaks,” A Cappella Choir, and drama club, forming friendships and memories that stayed with him throughout his life. He continued his education at the University of Iowa, earning his bachelor’s degree in 1976. While there, he served as president of the Delta Chi fraternity and embraced the camaraderie and experiences that shaped his outgoing and welcoming spirit.
Jim married Kate Green in January of 1978, and together they welcomed two sons, Ryan and Joe, who remained the pride and joy of his life. He later married the love of his life, Janet L. (Peterson) LaDage, on September 19, 2009, at First United Methodist Church in Galesburg. Together they shared many happy years filled with faith, laughter, travel, music, and time with family.
Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife, Janet of Galesburg; his two sons, Ryan (Ashley) Hardine and Joe (fiancée Samantha Giegerich), both of Dubuque, Iowa; his beloved granddaughter, Ava June Hardine; his sister, Susan (Jack) Crock of Galesburg; and his brother-in-law, Geoffrey Gengenbacher of Moline, Illinois. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Anne Gengenbacher.
Jim began his career in 1976 as an Insurance Marketing Representative, eventually retiring from Columbia Insurance in Columbia, Missouri in 2020. He often said he had “the best job,” because it allowed him to build lasting friendships and connections wherever he went. Jim never met a stranger, and his warm personality, quick wit, and genuine kindness left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Dedicated to his community, Jim was an active member of Sunrise Rotary. His passion for the arts remained a constant throughout his life as he served as president of the Knox-Galesburg Symphony board and participated in Prairie Players Productions. Whether attending a concert, supporting local theater, or sharing stories of performances past, Jim found joy in bringing people together through music and the arts.
Jim was also a devoted baseball fan and a loyal supporter of the New York Yankees. He treasured time spent cheering on his favorite team, sharing spirited conversations about the game, and creating traditions with family and friends around baseball.
A man of deep faith, Jim was baptized at First United Methodist Church in Galesburg and remained a lifelong member of the congregation and church choir. His faith guided his life and was reflected in his compassion, generosity, and unwavering encouragement of others.
Visitation will be from 1 to 3 p.m. Sunday, May 17, 2026, at Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Services Galesburg Chapel. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, May 18, 2026, at First United Methodist Church in Galesburg, with Rev. Glen Bocox and Rev. Deb Epley officiating. Cremation will be accorded following services. Burial will be at a later date in Hope Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to First United Methodist Church, Knox-Galesburg Symphony, or Mayo Clinic Cancer Research. Online condolences may be shared at www.h-p-w.com.
