Florence, AL — James Richard Sak, born on January 17, 1946 in Joliet, IL was sent to his eternal home on Monday, July 14th in Florence, AL.  He was the beloved son of Richard and Helen Sak.

Everyone who had the privilege of knowing Jim easily recognized that his earthly journey was one marked by love, compassion, and charity. He greeted all with a smile and left with a handshake. The size of his golden heart cannot be overstated. His passing leaves a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and many more whose lives were touched by him. We ask that you remember Jim for the way he lived life, and for the profound impact it had on the lives of those who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Jim was a gentle, unassuming man with a clever sense of humor and loved gathering with friends to play cards.  He enjoyed helping people solve problems of mechanics and business or virtually any topic. Although Jim was notoriously frugal with himself, he was graciously generous to others with aid and wisdom. He was a dependable man, a dedicated member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and Kiwanis Club of Florence liberally giving of his time and efforts to the annual Pancake Day fundraiser.

Growing up in Joliet, IL, Jim graduated from Joliet Central High School then from Lewis University with a degree in Economics. His early career was as an entrepreneur in real estate. In Joliet, he met Betty, and they married in 1977.  In 1985, Jim relocated his family to Florence, AL where he owned successful businesses for many years before retiring into his life of benevolence.

Jim cherished family most. He was an equally cherished son, husband, father, and grandfather. Jim is survived by Betty Sak, his wife of 48 years; his two sons and daughters-in-law Eugene Sak (Jewell Graham) and Duane Sak (Julie); his grandchildren, Ethan Howard Sak, Emma-Claire Sak, Mollie Marie Sak, Tucker Ray Sigle and Jewell Alexis Sigle; and numerous nieces and nephews.  He is also survived by his sister Charlotte Manis (82).

Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 pm Thursday, July 17, 2025, at Elkins Funeral Home, 1535 Hermitage Drive, Florence, AL.  A memorial mass will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, July 18, 2025 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 203 Plum Street, Florence, AL.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Kiwanis Club of Florence by continuing to buy Pancake Day tickets every year, which would be Jim's greatest wish.