James Lauritsen, 82, of Dwight, Illinois died Friday, September 16, 2022 at his residence. Cremation rites were accorded and a private family graveside service will be held in Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery at a later date. Memorials in Jim’s name may be made to VITAS Hospice or a charity of the donor’s choice. Hager Memorial Home in Dwight is in charge of arrangements. Jim was born September 2, 1940 in Streator, Illinois, the son of LaVerne and Marjorie (Perschnick) Lauritsen. He married Sandra Sega on May 31, 1986 in Dwight, Illinois. She survives in Dwight, Illinois. He is also survived by six children:  Becki (Thad) Siwecki and Mick (Amanda) Lauritsen, both of Pontiac, Illinois; Dan (Farrah Efland) Lauritsen of Virginia Beach, Virginia; Jeff Janicki of Dwight, Illinois; Jenna Funk of South Wilmington, Illinois; and Jessica Janicki (Angie Pearce) of Bloomington, Illinois. Also surviving are 22 grandchildren: Amanda (Chris) Fraustu, Kallie Siwecki, Mary Lauren Oliver (Joe Russow), Emily Siwecki, Sr. Rachel Lauritsen, Ryan Lauritsen, Megan Lauritsen, Abby Lauritsen, Drew Lauritsen, Kate Lauritsen, Jacob Lauritsen,  Grace Lauritsen, Hailey Lauritsen, Chase Lauritsen, Trinity McPherson, Stephen (Heather) Burg, Lauren (Wyatt) Rodriguez, Bailey Pearce, Chance Janicki, Amber Janicki, Aurora Janicki, and Stella Janicki. Six great-grandchildren: Haiden, Brooklynn, Noah, Justyce, Beau James and Barrett; one brother, Gerald (Peg) Lauritsen of Indiana; and one sister, Bev (Harold) Lund of Dwight, Illinois, also survive. Jim was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Kenneth Lauritsen. He farmed and then was employed at Dwight Grade and High Schools. He was a member of the Danish Brotherhood of America. Jim served our country in the United States Air Force from 1960 – 1964. A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, October 15, at 3 p.m. at the Dwight VFW.