James Draheim Obituary

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

I am deeply sorry for your family's loss. May your hearts find comfort in God's beautiful promises for the future. John 6:40

My sincerest condolences to the family of my friend Jim. I started teaching with in 1968 at Rainbo Arena. We shared countless lunches and dinners and he secured several modeling jobs for me also. Jim was a wonderful friend and I know his presence will be missed at the rink. Rest in Peace.

My sincere condolences to your family for the loss of your love one. May the God of comfort be with you during this sad occasion and may his loving words at John 6:40 console your heart.

My sincere condolences to family and friends. May God sustain you at this time of such great loss (Psalms 94:19).

I would like to take the time out to remember a very amazing man, who I am sure not only impacted my life, but the lives of many others. Over the weekend I heard about the passing of one of Robert Crown's best coaches. In my eyes he was like a living legend, a man with so much knowledge and wisdom. Coach Jim was a coach that literally has been in my life through every phase of my skating. I remember him reminding me to keep my arms up when I was first learning forward cross overs in Alpha class. Then I remember him giving me little tips and tricks here and there, to help me perfect whichever jump or spin I was working on through out my entire competitive career. I also remember him giving me countless advice for coaching, and teaching me how to get my students to "ride their edges." I remember being at his surprise 80th birthday party, where he greeted me with a warm hug. That same hug I received throughout my childhood thru my competive career, all the way up to my coaching days. That hug I also received every time I came home from tour. He was always interested to know how tour was going, the places I'd seen, he would always let me know he was proud of me. It's sad to think that I received my last hug this past August . But I don't want to dwell on that sadness, because all of my memories of Coach Jim where nothing but smiles, and that's how I will forever remember him. Thank you Jim for all you have done for me and countless others over the years, you will truly be missed.

Oh how we miss Jim's wonderful stories about the 'early days': drinking with Royko at Billy Goat, riding horses in Lincoln Park, funny advertising shoots and all his encounters with notable Chicagoans of days gone by. Mostly we'll miss his lovely smile and beautiful voice, particularly singing "Bear Down Chicago Bears" when they score. The denizens of Joes on Broadway salute you, Jim Skates.

Jim was our daughter's coach for many years. I have never seen a more patient coach, ever. His persistence, gentle but firm nature, and wry sense of humor made him a pleasure to work with, both as a parent and a pupil. His stories about the people he skated with, and his experiences in the skating world, were fascinating. Sitting next to him during the screening of the movie "Rise," was a gift. He spoke of some of the skaters and coaches who died in the plane crash, and how the U.S. skating community rebuilt after such a devastating loss. He will be much missed. There's a big hole where his skates once were. RIP, Jim. Patte, Cassidy, and Pip.

My sincere condolences. Find comfort in the God who is close to the brokenhearted.

My Condolences To The Family;
I'm so sorry for your great loss. May the God of all comfort be with you all during this difficult time.

I knew Jim as a kid, teen, and adult during my skating career at Robert Crown. He was an amazing teach with a mild and sweet demeanor. I am lucky to have been taught by Jim and to have him make a good impression in my life. God speed

Becky Wood D'Aprile

Jim was such an important part of so many people's lives, and a huge influence and mentor for both me and my daughter. My deepest sympathy to all the family. Blessed Be.

I am deeply sorry for your family's loss. May your hearts find comfort in God's beautiful promises for the future. John 6:40

My condolences are extended as you mourn the loss of your dear loved one. May you find comfort and strength to cope during this trying time. Psalm 90:10