James J. Kaulentis, 79, of Deerfield, Illinois, passed away on February 4, 2025. Beloved husband of Carmen née Mininni for 55 years. Born September 2, 1945, in Chicago, Jim was a graduate of Lane Tech High School, where his home runs were legendary, and his number is retired to this day. Jim was known as 'JKL' as a member of the Chicago Mercantile Exchange. Jim lived a life worthy of a major motion picture, flush with loyal friends, and accomplishments far and wide; but there was one thing that mattered to Jim above all else, and forever: Family. Loving father of Demitra Kaulentis, Michael J. (Franny) Kaulentis, and the late John J. Kaulentis. Cherished Papou - Bubba of Jimmy, Alex, TC, Caitlyn, and Johnny, Sloane, Millie, and Emma. Dear brother of Chrys Kaulentis and the late Dean J. (Kathie) Kaulentis. James was preceded in death by his parents, Emma C. and John J. Kaulentis. Adored uncle, cousin, and friend of many. A visitation will be held on Monday, February 10, 2025, from 3-8 p.m. at Kelley & Spalding Funeral Home, 1787 Deerfield Road, Highland Park, IL. Funeral services will be held at 10:00am Tuesday, February 11th, at Ascension of Our Lord Greek Orthodox Church, 1207 Riverwoods Rd. Lincolnshire, Illinois. Interment will be at Elmwood Cemetery, River Grove, Illinois. In lieu of flowers, donations to his family or to the John J. Kaulentis Memorial Scholarship Fund, please send checks to 47 Highwood Avenue, Highwood, IL 60040 or Zelle payments to jjkscholarshipfund@gmail.com would be greatly appreciated.  Share a condolence, share a story, or post a picture at funerals.pro, or for additional funeral information, please call Dean S. Argiris at Chicago Greek Funerals under Kolssak Funeral Home at 847-537-6600.