James D. Nero Jr.

James D. Nero Jr. age 93, of Lakewood, Illinois and formerly of Des Plaines, Illinois passed away at home on December 24, 2022. He was born in Chicago, Illinois on July 31, 1929 to James D. Sr. and Carmella (Pontarelli) Nero.

James taught Physical Education and coached at Algonquin Jr. High in Des Plaines, Illinois from 1957-1990. During his retirement James and his wife Loretta spent their time participating in art shows and festivals in the Chicagoland area and Naples, Florida. Loretta was an accomplished watercolor artist while James cut the mats and framed every painting. While James courageously battled Parkinson’s Disease for the last 20 years, he maintained his wonderful sense of humor and served his family as the wise and loving patriarch. James was also a Veteran of the Unites States Navy.

He is survived by his daughter, Reggie Nero Good and his son, John D. (Cyndi) Nero; his grandchildren, Cameron, Colton, Avalon, Justice, and Aurora.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Loretta A. (Bardauskas) Nero. 

Services will be held privately.

​Arrangements entrusted with Willow Funeral Home in Algonquin, Illinois.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of James D. Nero Jr., please visit our floral store.