James Jay Appel, 81, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully at home in East Dubuque, Illinois, on Monday, August 25th, surrounded by his devoted family and his wife of 59 years, Gini.

Jim was born in Dubuque, IA, the son of Robert and Elsie (Rapp) Appel on December 27, 1943.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 31, 2025, at Wesley Methodist Church in East Dubuque, with Pastor Crystal Weber officiating. Family and friends may call from 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. on Sunday at the church. The Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque is assisting the family.

Jim found joy in the simple pleasures of life—boating on Frentress Lake, gathering around bonfires, and playing his cherished accordion. He treasured time with lifelong friends, cheered enthusiastically at his grandson River’s track meets, and proudly supported his granddaughter Liliana in her softball and volleyball games. To River and Lili, he was simply “Pa”—a title worn with love and pride. His warmth extended beyond family, touching the lives of Candie, Susie, and Sharon, who became like family to him.

A graduate of Dubuque Senior High School and the University of Dubuque, Jim was drafted into the Army shortly after marrying Gini and served honorably in Munich, Germany. Upon returning home, he joined the family business, Appel’s Crystal Cleaning, and later held various occupations before retiring from the Illinois Department of Transportation.

Jim’s commitment to service was unwavering. He was honored with a Quilt of Valor and participated in the Honor Flight this past May. He proudly served on several positions with Wesley Methodist Church and on the East Dubuque School Board. His musical spirit lived on through the Sweetwater Quartet—now reunited in heaven for an eternal performance.

In his later years, Jim embraced every moment: sharing laughs at Aldi’s and Hy-Vee, finding the best deals, and he looked forward to playing the accordion in Galena. He is survived by his loving wife Gini (Beck), daughters Lisa Appel and Kristi (Manny) Alvarado, and grandchildren River and Liliana Alvarado. He was preceded in death by his parents, and brother John.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Jim’s medical team, especially Dr. Morgan-Ihrig, her exceptional staff, and Bridget Schmidt, ARNP.

A memorial fund has been established in Jim’s honor.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.millerfhed.com©