James "Jim" Frerker

James Paul Frerker, age 87, of Carlyle passed away on Saturday, December 26, 2015 at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Breese surrounded by his loving family. Jim was born in Carlyle on September 13, 1928, the son of Paul and Leona (Heyer) Frerker. He married Pat Farrell at St. Mary’s Church in Carlyle and she preceded him in death on October 25, 2015.

Father of Robert Frerker, Barbara Cardwell (Terry), Cynthia Prince (Danny), and James Frerker (Stephanie). Grandfather of Michelle Edwards (Brian), Teresa Wellen (Chad), Sarah and Jack Frerker. Great- grandfather of Drew and Meghan Edwards, Eli and Harlow Wellen.

Along with his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by his sister Jean Platt, brother- in-law Jim “Doc” Platt and his nephew Paul Platt.

Jim owned Pepsi Distributing in his younger years, and was known as the “Pepsi Man” in all of Clinton County. Then, he was co-owner of Carlyle Distributing until retirement. He was a member of the Associated Beer Distributors of Illinois. Jim served in the United States Army during WWII and was a Catholic War Veteran. He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Carlyle, Honorary Lifetime Member of the Knights of Columbus and American Legion.

Jim enjoyed spending time with his family and watching his grandchildren and great-grandchildren play, and he especially enjoyed teasing them. They loved his story telling and were proud to hear stories from friends and team members of his talent as a baseball pitcher in his younger years. Jim played with the Clinton County Baseball League and was a player on the Carlyle “Foam Blowers” team. Through his business, Jim was a generous supporter of all Clinton County Schools. And for those who knew him best, Jim was a BIG Chicago Bears fan!

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 AM on Wednesday, December 30, 2015 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Carlyle with Fr. George Mauck officiating. In keeping with Jim’s wishes cremation has been performed. Private interment services will be held at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Carlyle.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, December 30, 2015 from 9:00 AM until 10:30 AM at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Carlyle.

In Lieu of flowers memorials can be made in Jim’s honor to St. Mary’s Church or donor’s favorite charity and will be received at Nordike Funeral Home in Carlyle.