James Rexilius Obituary

Rexilius, James "Coach Rex" 71, of Wheaton for 35 years, beloved husband of Grace, loving father of Sandra, Susan (Scott) Hall, James (Laura) Jr., Paul (Heidi) and Ken, proud grandfather of Justin, Jared, Jonathan, Jorden, Kent, Troy, Brett, Jacob, Andrew and James, brother of Rex, Rolle, Larry, Marge Scott and Sharon Thomas. Visitation Monday, June 30th, 3 to 9 p.m., at College Church in Wheaton, corner of Seminary and Washington, in the sanctuary, where a funeral service will be held Tuesday, at 10 a.m. Private interment, Clarendon Hills Cemetery, Darien. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Fellowship of Christian Athletes, 327 Gundersen Dr., Carol Stream, IL, 60188 or to the Pacific Garden Mission, 646 S. State St., Chicago, IL, 60605. Info and guestbook at legacy.com or call Hultgren Funeral Home, 630-668-0027.

Published by Chicago Sun-Times on Jun. 27, 2003.
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Coach Rex was the finest man I have ever known. He constantly invested in the lives of others and he taught me many of life's most important lessons. I continue to think about him every day and marvel at how he lived his life. I will miss him greatly but am secure in the knowledge that we will meet again.

To Grace,JR,Ken and the rest of the family who I don't know, thank you for sharing Coach Rex with me. Chris Coughlin

Chris Coughlin

July 22, 2003

Dear Grace, my heart goes out to you and your extended family over the loss of one of the finest men I have ever known. Rex and I go back to our days at Wheaton Academy in the late 40's. We shared so many happy times, working and playing together. It was obvious from the very beginning that Rex had an abundance of sterling qualities that were revealed to the rest of the world during his long life. He knew the true meaning of loyalty, reliability, genuineness, fun, committment, dedication and a long list of qualities for which many strive and which Rex acheived. In addition, his unshakable faith in Christ made his a most unusual man. I am proud to have known him and to call him my friend. May the enormous absence left by Rex be filled with all the rich memories of your life with him and the knowledge that he is will his Lord

John E. Hanson

July 18, 2003

As a young man growing up, there were two men that influenced my life the most...my own Father, and Coach Rex. Coach is still here, alive in the memories of the thousands that he impacted! God bless him and his family.

Steve Holland

July 12, 2003

I speak for my whole family, (Al and Kevin) Coach Rex was a big influence on the Taylor family, thru Al & Kevin in Sports to Scott in sports and the FCA. Rex was a wonderful friend to my Mom and Dad in their time of need when Scott and Kathy died and with their passing, gave my brothers and I a great deal of comfort and support. To the Rex Family, you all are in our thoughts and prayers.

Mark Taylor, class of 81

Mark Taylor

July 10, 2003

I consider the brief time I knew Coach Rex from his last two years in Hinsdale to be years of immeasurable impact on me for my entire life and for the years that will follow. I consider myself to have been blessed in knowing him. His kindness reached out to my family as well. Peace be with you Coach Rex. You will never be fogotten.
Steve Pellini Hinsdale Central Class of 1970

Steven Pellini

July 9, 2003

Jim was a great coach and an even better man. He always found time to help other coaches, especially me, in any football or FCA related problem or cause. We will all miss him.

Dominic Riccordino

July 5, 2003

Throughout the past two years, I had always thought of Coach Rex as an amazing football coach, a dedicated leader, and a devoted christian, and it wasn't until his services that i realized how many people he truly affected. after more than two hours in line, I had to have seen hundreds of people who felt exactly as i did, devastated. As upset as i was, there was always that feeling that stopped you from getting caught on your emotions, because i cannot even remember how many times coach would talk about his readiness to leave. I can remember him telling our FCA huddle group "I know where I'm going, and I'm ready to go whenever God wants to take me." I will truly miss the thrusday night pregame motivation calls, or the sunday night FCA huddles, or the camps. Coach Rex not only influenced me, he influence my family, my friends, and countless other people. His faith was evident in him every time he talked. We're gonna miss you coach!

Kenny Tinnes

July 4, 2003

Upon returning from family vacation, we were deeply saddened to hear of the Church's loss of a man of prayer who radiated with the warm and bold confidence of knowing the One whose likeness he now beholds in unveiled glory. The Lord has us here in Urban Ministry in large measure through the encouragment, support and love of Coach Rex. In similar fashion he encouraged many others, so that by God's grace the saddness in our loss will be our increased joy of his gain who modeled what it means to live is Christ and to die is gain.

Our prayers are with you Grace and family... we love you!

John and Debbie Rush

July 3, 2003

There were very few men who influenced my life as much as Coach Rex. Through the years his friendship with both me and my family was one of our real treaures. We will miss him very much. Our condolences to your family in this time of sorrow. With Love in Christ. The Halls

David Hall

July 3, 2003

Deepest sympathies to the family of a man who instilled in me discipline, pride, respect, and an unbridled work ethic that has made me the man I am today.

So long Coach Rex!

Tom Spychalski

July 3, 2003

Dear Grace and Family:
I was classmate of Jim at Wheaton Academy,class of 50. We played football together with Dave McCarrell,his brother-in-law. It was a thrill to follow his career at Wheaton North and all the influence He had on the boys there.
May the Lord fill all the empty places in your lives
Love in Christ Jesus
Wendell and Lois Johnson

Wendell Johnson

July 2, 2003

I didn't know Coach Rex...but my Uncle Joey (Hadsell) played football for him a long time ago...he says Coach Rex helped make him who he is today and well, my Uncle Joey is one of the greatest men I know, so I wanted to thank Coach Rex for that. I am sorry for the loss, of what appears to be a very special man!

Sincerely,
Dionne Coleman

Dionne Coleman

July 2, 2003

For the Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God, and the dead in Christ shall rise first. I Thess. 4:16

Chuck & Myriam Barton

July 2, 2003

With sincere sympathy--he was a GREAT MAN who made a huge difference in my life!

Kevin Williams

July 1, 2003

Truly one of the most influential people in my life. I learned invaluable lessons about discipline and perserverence from Rex. His life was a shining example for all. I will never forget him and consider myself blessed to have had an association with this giant of a man. Semper Fidelis, Rex.
Pete Gutmann
Class of '74

Pete Gutmann

July 1, 2003

My wife and I praise the Lord for the steadfast Christian testimony of Coach Rex, faithfully held until the end. His life was committed to a bold living example without hypocrisy of the Word of God. Many, including myself, have followed him as he followed Christ. We are thankful that the Lord, through His gracious providence, has allowed his life to make such a significant impact on ours. We will miss this dear man of God and long for the day when we will be reunited with him in glory.

Randy Smith

July 1, 2003

To Coach JR and the Rexilius Family: I wanted to let you know how much our few encounters with Coach Rex meant to my son. It was only after visitation though, that I realized how much he impacted others. His encouragement meant a lot to us, but his legacy will be his positive effect on so many others.

Larry Pope

July 1, 2003

Dear Rexilius Family:

We celebrate coach's life and are trusting the Lord to give comfort, strength and peace to you.

Gary & Junette Schmitt

July 1, 2003

I will never forget Coach Rex walking down the halls of Wheaton North, always with a smile and a friendly hello! I know how much joy he brought my brother, whom he did coach on the football field. We will miss him and pray for all the family and friends of Coach Rex. God Bless.

Shannon (Thurston) Meinhold ('96)

July 1, 2003

The world needs more people like Coach Rex. I know of nobody else always so positive and caring towards his family, friends, and players alike. He touched my life as he touched thousands of others lives. He is an inspiration to me. It is sad to see him go, but it is comforting to know that he is in heaven. My heartfelt condolences go out to the Rexilius family.

Tim Carstensen

July 1, 2003

May The LORD JESUS CHRIST comfort your family's hearts in this time of sorrow. He is safely in THE FATHER'S Arms.

Rick and Karen Moorefield

June 30, 2003

Coach Rex was one of the best examples I have ever known on how to be an upstanding, honest and respectable human being. He has always had my full respect. My condolences go to Mrs. Rex and family as I am sure this is a very hard time. God Bless.

Nikki Martin

June 30, 2003

Besides being there for all of us, Coach Rex was a marvelous outstanding speaker at public events, special occasions, and especially football banquets. He would always finish his talks with words of encouragement and a course to follow. Since taking up the use of email Coach would always conclude his messages, even during his hardest times, with his favorite scripture verse ... Proverbs 3:5-6 ... "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding and ... in all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths." Again words of encouragement and a course to follow and for us to continue to follow as he had so faithfully done.

Jim Jordan

June 30, 2003

To the Rexilius Family:

Please accept our deepest sympathy. Coach Rex has always had a special place in our hearts both on the field of play, in FCA and as a friend of our family.

Mike, Bill, Tim, Pete, John, Tricia & Brian Maher (WCHS & WWS);

Mike Maher

June 30, 2003

Besides being there for all of us, Coach Rex was a marvelous outstanding speaker at public events, special occasions, and especially football banquets. He would always finish his talks with words of encouragement and a course to follow. Since taking up the use of email Coach would always conclude his messages, even during his hardest times, with his favorite scripture verse ... Prov. 3:5-6 ... "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding and ... In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths." Again words of encouragement and a course to follow and to continue to follow for all of us as he had so faithfully done.

Jim Jordan

June 30, 2003

Our heart-felt thoughts and prayers go out Coach's family. Coach not only walked the path of righeousness, he reached out to so many of us who were straying from it. He provided guidance and leadership by living the example for us to follow. Coach took clumsy kids and made them athletes while teaching us to be responsible adults. We will never forget Coach and all that he lived for and taught us to live for. As so many have stated, Thank you for sharing him with all of us.

Joe ('83) & Pam ('85) Hadsell

June 30, 2003

Dear Rexilius family,

We will always remember "coach Rex" fondly, for he never had any but the best interexts in mind for those he came to know.

Jerry and Diana Nagel and family

June 30, 2003

To the Rexilius family,
Our deepest sympathy to all.

jim myrick

June 30, 2003

Rex Family -

Deepest condolences from all of the Moores. You know what a profoud influence Coach had and will continue to have on my life and I'm most glad to know the rest of my family was able to experience his examples of integrity, leadership and faith.

The world was truly a better place with him in it and he will be greatly missed. Hopefully, you'll find some small comfort during this difficult time knowing that you're part of the awesome legacy he leaves behind, thanks for sharing him with us -

Scott & Rose and the rest of the Moore Family.

Scott Moore

June 30, 2003

Dear Rexilius Family:
We were deeply saddened by the news of Coach Rex's passing. He has been in our thoughts and prayers these last several months. We always enjoyed his calls to Jeff to remind him of the FCA meetings, usually left on our answering machine. He was always there to encourage, and we were especially touched by his call to Jeff after he qualified for the State Track Meet this past season. Even though his health was failing him, his spirit never faltered. When we think of Coach Rex we think of him as a soldier in Christ's army. He touched so many lives and made such an impact. It goes without saying that the Lord was happy with his work. We are indeed blessed that he passed our way.

Tim and Linda Raymond

June 29, 2003

To the family of Coach Rexilius, We extend our thoughts and prayers to all of you during this difficult time in the Homegoing of Coach Rexilius. Though we were not close family friends, we can say Jim had an honest and genuine care for others, of all ages. He would come up and ask with great sincerity how a family member might be doing and always give a word of encouragement and inspiration. He loved his wife,family,children,and grandchildren,which has always been evident by his actions from afar........and he loved youth. Even more he loved, and loves, the Lord Jesus Christ. As one person said already, he was/is one of the men who truly has "walked the walk" and been an example for many. Though we are all sad in the Homegoing of a godly man who was willing to used by God....we are seeing--and will continue to see the fruits of his labor--for the glory of God; which is what I believe deep down his life was all about. We know he is with His Maker and rejoice in that; and our prayers are with you and the many who truly feel his loss. May the Lord provide His grace, peace,and comfort, to you during your time of need. "He will be a Father to the fatherless and a Husband to the husbandless" May the Lord continue to bless you all and Coach Rexilius' ministry....for His Glory.
In Christ, The Ron deVries Family

Dina deVries

June 29, 2003

Dear Grace-I hope it's some small solace in your period of grief to know that Jim had a very profound and positive effect on so many young people including my 3 boys. My late wife Robyn and I were eternally grateful. Warren Tisch

Warren Tisch

June 29, 2003

To the Rexilius Family,
Please accept my deepest sympathies and know that my thoughts are with you all.
Looking back on my life, Coach Rex was undoubtably the greatest personal example of integrity and values I have had the privilege to be exposed to. More than anyone else I know, he lived his faith and showered love on all.
I have often hoped that over the couse of my children's lives they are lucky enough to encounter their own Coach Rex.
I'll never forget him.
Warmest regards,
JOHN

John Lotka

June 29, 2003

To the Rexilius Family,

I am a better man today because of my relationship with Coach Rex. His philosophy of teaching and coaching will always be with me. My only regret is not being able to coach with him one more time. Thank you Rexilius Family for sharing him with me. He was a teacher, father, and most of all a great friend for me. He will be missed tremendously.

Tony Nevrly

Anthony Nevrly

June 29, 2003

Grace and the rest of Coach's family:

Thanks for sharing your husband, father and grandfather to all of us. Coach was truly a man of God who "walked the walk". As part of West Chicago's FCA huddle I was privledged to watch Coach minister and preach the gospel up to his last weeks. Finally these words from Coach to our FCA huddle leaders and to all of us (from January FCA planning meeting memo):

Pray for you all each day (which he did and we need to do).

Be an overcomer. We have started the race-how are we going to finish it? (which he did excellently)

Thanks for your prayers-God is in charge-I don't know what the future holds but I know who holds the future-I am in His hands.

What a joy to know that Coach is now gazing at the face of Jesus and rejoicing in the One he lived his life for. I know that God was pleased with Coach's life and will be exalted in his death. Praise be to God for Coach's testimony.

Paul McLeland

June 28, 2003

IWILL REMEMBER COACH REX FOR HIS ENTHUSIASM AND DEDICATION TO HIS TEAMS AND TO THE LORD.HE WAS A POSITVE ROLL MODEL FOR US ALL.

JAMES HYNEK

June 28, 2003

To the Rexilius family: Please accept our deepest sympathies regarding the death of Coach Rex. We had the honor of knowing and working with him for years. He was a role model for students and all of us. We know your deep faith will keep his spirit alive within you and into eternity.

Mike and Stacie Dunn

June 28, 2003

My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Rexilius family. I have wonderful memories of the Saturday morning coaches' breakfasts at Grace Chrurch as a young coach. It was a privilege to be on the same football field (unfortunately on opposite sidelines) with such a man with such Godly character as Coach Rex.

Tim Ried

June 28, 2003

Your family is in our prayers.

ANDE Boeck

June 28, 2003

YOU FAMILY IS IN OUR PRAYERS.

Bill and JANIS WILLIAMS

June 28, 2003

My prayers to the Rex family. He was a great man and a great coach. God blessed him in his life work. I will always remember him and his impact on my life.

Keith Burlingame

June 28, 2003

My best wishes to family and friends of this wonderful coach, inspiring teacher and excellent human being. Coach, you will be missed.

Stefanie Pfleger

June 27, 2003

To the Rexilius family:
I extend my deepest condolences. I spent 4 short years with Coach Rex, but in that time I learned what it took to be a man. Thank you Coach Rex for teaching me the importance of dedication, hard work, and Faith. I will never forget Coach Rex, and the impact he has had on my life.

Anthony Addante

June 27, 2003

Jim Rexilius was an inspiration to the thousands of young athletes whose lives he touched over the course of his coaching career. I will always consider myself extremely fortunate to be one of them. I know I speak for all when I say we will always remember him. My condolences to his family and friends.
Herb Briick, Hinsdale Central High School, 1969

Herb Briick

June 27, 2003

GREAT MAN - GREAT COACH
with a great family!
Thanks Papa Rex....

Tim Furco

June 27, 2003

I never met Coach Rex in person but had the privilege to pray with him on the phone. I was praying for his health but I was the one that received the blessing as he encouraged me in my walk. One day Jesus will introduce me to him.

Milton Cooper

June 27, 2003

To the entire Rexilius family. I just wanted to say thanks for all the time I got to spend with Coach Rex. Coach Rex has been a great inspiration and mentor. His guidance and wisdom was always helpful. I'll miss him greatly. Respectfully,

Dan Taylor

June 27, 2003

Coach Rex, was a great man who shared his passion for football and his love of the Lord with me by the way he led his life. I will always remember his words of "live life with no regrets" because I know that is how he lived his life.

Spencer Campbell
(Class of 92')

Spencer Campbell

June 27, 2003

My heartfelt sympathies go out to the Rexilius family in this transitional time. Of all the many influential people in my life, Coach Rex was one of the primary ones, especially at that critical time. I'm so grateful to have known him-to have been inspired by him. In an age where "celebrity" and "hero" status can be bestowed so easily, Coach Rex is more deserving than most, as he touched so many lives for the better.
Thanks Coach!
Dick Winzeler
WNHS Class of 1970

Dick Winzeler

June 27, 2003

Know that we care and that our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family, now , as they were before.

Martha and Barry Barnes

June 27, 2003

I had met Grace through Jane and Larry, who are very dear friends of mine and past employer. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family in you loss. May you find comfort in all your special memories.

Carole Sonmor

June 27, 2003

It was an honor to know Coach Rex and work with him for so many years. Not only was he the most dedicated man, he was also a great friend and role model. He taught me many wonderful life lessons, and always took time to remind you how important life is, and to always stay strong for family and keep faith in God. My deepest condolences to the entire Family.

I will never forget him!

Elizabeth Pierce

June 27, 2003

Coach Rex,

You will always be in our hearts and our prayers. We will forever miss your smiles in the office.

The girls at Sportdecals.

Heidi Hackler

June 27, 2003

To Jim, Laura & family,



Our deepest sympathies on the loss of your Dad.

Doug & Cathy Miller

June 27, 2003

Joseph Henkelman

June 27, 2003

Wheaton was truly Blessed to have such a person as part of its community. Thank you Coach Rex.

Brian Rieman

June 27, 2003

Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.

The Hultgren Family and Staff

June 27, 2003

It was a privilege to know "Rex" these almost 53 years, witness his vibrant Faith in action in classroom, on the practice and playing field, with his coaching peers and in private. He never failed to inspire us when we visited this past challenging year. In behalf of his hundreds of Wheaton College classmates we offer our condolences to his dear family.

Ray Smith '54

Ray Smith

June 26, 2003

Coach Rex was a great man, he taught me so much about what life is all about. I will always be indebted to him for the lessons he taught me, and for the time he spent with me. I will never forget him.

Class of '95

Steve Harry

June 26, 2003

We have lost an icon of personal integrity and professional excellence. My prayers are with Coach Rex's family, may God surround you with His love and comfort you with the assurance of eternity in His presence. (WNHS class of 1975)

Sheila Kosin

June 26, 2003

My deepest condolences to Coach JR. and the rest of the Rexilius Family. Dwight Brandt(Equipment MGR) Class of '93

Dwight Brandt

June 26, 2003

We'll always appreciate all that Coach Rex did for Scott. He was a wonderful man.

Mark and Nancy Sieder

June 26, 2003

Coach Rex was the role model for my son and countless others who were blessed to have been coached by him.

We all thank him for showing our sons the way to enjoy the right way of life!

Barbara Hadsell

June 26, 2003

Our deepest sympathy for the loss of a great guy.

Jankusky Family

June 26, 2003

To Grace, JR, Paul and the rest of the Rexilius Family: We extend our heartfelt condolences and prayerful support. Coach lived his life with a passion and a purpose.....GOD, family, friends & football. He was a "good and faithful servant" to his Lord & Savior. All of our Love, Larry & Jude Mandel and Family > WNHS Class of 1970

Larry Mandel

June 26, 2003

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