James "Jim" Magro Sr.

James “Jim” Magro Sr, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully on February 18, 2026, in Austin, Texas at the age of 92. He was born on July 29, 1933, in Chicago, Illinois, to Frank and Anna (Matusik) Magro and grew up with his brother, Ronald Magro, who preceded him in death. Jim lived a life defined by love, laughter, and a deep sense of humor that endeared him to everyone he met.Jim spent his early years on Chicago’s North Side and moved to Hegewisch–East Side at 13. In 1958, he met the love of his life, Helen (Moskwa) Magro, and the two were married, beginning a remarkable 64-year journey together filled with devotion, partnership, and countless cherished memories. As they built their life together, Jim and Helen made their home in several communities — from South Holland and Crete — before eventually splitting time between Georgia and Texas to remain connected to their children and beloved granddaughters.

Jim was the proud father of Donna (Greg) Miller and James “Jim” (Melanie) Magro Jr. He found immeasurable joy in his role as grandfather to Ashley Magro and Krista (David) Pfau. Jim had a way of showing love to his grandchildren with his hands and actions — from shared laughter and storytelling to the handmade gifts he and Helen lovingly built over time. In addition to being a devoted family man, He was also a proud member of the IBEW (International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers) local Chapter 134. Jim took great pride in his work, and his reputation for not only his skill, but honest work and reliability preceded him and allowed him to own his own business, J. Guardian Electric, in Chicago. His strong work ethic, determination, and craftsmanship reflected the values he carried throughout his life and passed on to those around him.

Jim’s hallmark quality was his dedication to being a family man. Ever-present, reliable, and ready to arrive to any scene with perspective and an unparalleled sense of humor, he had a knack for making any situation better. In a time where many would turn a blind eye to someone in need, Jim was the first to offer a helping hand to anyone who asked.It’s worth noting that amongst all of the anecdotes of Jim’s dedication to family that he was also a was a proud veteran of the United States Army and served his country. He was also a longtime member of the Cesare Battisti Lodge #27 in Schererville, Indiana. A stranger to no one, Jim’s legacy lives on in the brotherhood he leaves behind.

Jim Magro, as it has been said, “loved others to the point of invention.” He leaves behind physical mementos in the form of safely-wired homes for families to grow up in, tack boxes for his eldest granddaughter, Ashley, and her horses, swing sets for his youngest, Krista, and intricately-constructed (and to no one’s surprise, electrically-wired) dollhouses for both. His sense of humor and genuine interest in others’ lives on in both of his children who have, like Jim, never met a stranger.

But overall, his legacy is carried greatly by his partner and wife of 64 years, Helen, who knew him best. It’s a love story that sounds like a Nicholas Sparks novel: two young people meeting for the first time, Jim who happened to be driving by while Helen nursed a flat tire after leaving work at Helen’s House of Fashion.

Together, they built a life that many often dream of with family at the heart of it. A modern-day force and partnership that current times would be proud of, their legacy is one of love, laughter, hard work, unwavering devotion, and a sense for always doing the right thing by others. His kindness, humor, and integrity will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.