Vendel "Big Jim" Puskac

Vendel "Big Jim" Puskac, age 76, of Westville, Illinois, passed away on April 29, 2026, at OSF Sacred Heart in Danville.

Born on July 22, 1949, in Danville to Vendel Puskac and Florence Willoughby, Jim was a lifelong resident of the area. He was a familiar face in the community, having dedicated years of service as a janitor for Westville High School and working in maintenance at Mervis.

True to his nickname, "Big Jim" had a big personality and an even bigger heart for the things he loved. He was an avid motorcyclist who found peace on the open road and an outdoorsman who cherished time spent in nature. Above all else, he was a family man. His greatest passion was his family, and he was happiest when surrounded by those he loved.

Jim is survived by his children: Jimmy (Nickee) Puskac, Cindy (Jeff) Warner, Theresa McCord, Mike Lovell, Candy Puskac, and Amber Brown. He was a proud grandfather to Zach Puskac, Josh (Helena) Warner, Jessica Cox, Ashley Harris, Trina (Aaron) Johnson, LeAnn (Michael) Buttler, Amy Lovell, James Lovell, Hannah Smalley, Madalyn Smalley, Jaime Contreas II, and Rochelle.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Vendel and Florence, and his sister, Wanda.

To honor Jim’s life and the many stories he left behind, a celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center's Urbas Chapel, 414 South State Street in Westville, Illinois helped the family with Jim's final wishes.