James N. “Jim” Tsarpalas, at rest peacefully at home on January 18, 2021.
Devoted son of the late Nicholas and Mary Tsarpalas, loving brother of Nancy Tsarpalas, beloved Godfather of Konstantine Buhler, fond cousin and friend of many.
Born in Logan Square in Chicago, Jim was a longtime resident of Torrance, California. Jim’s restaurant experience in Chicago and love of sports led him to enjoy a successful career in Sales, Marketing and Sales Management in the Food, Beverage and Sports Industries in Los Angeles. He was particularly talented at growing new markets for entrepreneurial beverage companies and had recently joined the Levy Restaurant operation at Dodgers Stadium and StubHub Center. His likable style, big personality and gift for developing great relationships helped him establish a boundless network of enviable business associates.
Jim’s most passionate avocation started in 1999 when he joined the NFL’s now Las Vegas Raiders in Field Operations managing side line security on the football field for the team. When the Raiders moved from L.A. to Oakland he traveled back and forth for all of the Raider home games. In addition to his field role Jim showed his dedication to the organization by supporting the sale of Raider Team Merchandise through The Raider Image, Universal CityWalk Hollywood. Jim was very much looking forward to being back on the field next season, as much as the team was anxious to have him back at the new Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. He was dearly loved and respected by the entire Raider Family.
Musically gifted and once an accomplished concert pianist, Jim remained a keen fan of jazz and all forms of music with his fine-tuned ear and discerning taste. He had recently added a new keyboard where he housed his vintage collection and was looking forward to returning to his musical roots. An avid reader Jim was especially inspired by biographies of successful entrepreneurs and politicians, as well as music and sports legends.
Jim was a student of Christ and devout Greek Orthodox Christian. As a proud member of St. Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Los Angeles, Jim was a dedicated steward and attended bible study. Over the years he regularly, unselfishly volunteered his time and dedicated resources to support principal fund raising events for the St. Sophia Parish. There are so many ways Jim expressed his generosity, faith and good heartedness to others.
Jim was “never going to retire”. He and his sister were recently sharing plans to buy back their childhood home in Logan Square to preserve the family legacy. After receiving his Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science at Northeastern Illinois University, Jim studied Law for two years at John Marshall. He was planning to finish Law School.
A strong, intelligent, gifted man, (Mom always said he had “too many talents!”) Jim brightened every room he entered. He was happy, humorous, driven and energetic. He worked hard at everything he did and had great relationships with everyone he knew.
Most of all Jim was the best, most giving and loving brother in the world. He will be deeply missed.
Visitation will be Monday, February 8, 2021 at 10AM at St. Nectarios Greek Orthodox Church, Palatine, Illinois. Funeral Service will begin at 10:30AM. Interment to follow at Elmwood Cemetery, River Grove, Illinois. Those who wish to attend the service virtually, please tune in to the livestream at 10:30AM at JGA. Those attending in person, Covid-19 restrictions will apply. Social distancing and mask-wearing will be observed.
May His Memory Be Eternal.
