James Specht

James Bruce Specht, 81, of Geneseo, passed away on Wednesday, September 10, 2025 at his home. A Memorial service will be held on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, at 6 p.m. at Vandemore Funeral Home and Crematory – Geneseo Chapel. Inurnment will be at a later date. Visitation will be held prior to the memorial service form 4 p.m. – 6 p.m. at Vandemore Funeral Home – Geneseo Chapel. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Geneseo Humane Society.

James was born on Januray 20, 1944, in Geneseo, IL, the son of George and Genevieve (Park) Specht. He graduated from J.D. Darnell High School in 1962. He married Barbara Grider on December 29, 1962. Together they raised a beautiful family. James worked as a plumber for Vandemore Plumbing and Heating and Wirth Inc. for many years. He was also employed by the City of Geneseo Water Department. James was a member of St. Malachy Catholic Church. He loved to golf, especially at Sugar Maple Golf Course in Geneseo. In his free time, James enjoyed woodworking, watching the Cubs and Bears play, and spending time with his family and friends, especially his grandchildren.

Those left to cherish his memroy include his wife, Barbara of Geneseo; sons, Tom (Joan) Specht of Geneseo, and Greg Specht of Geneseo; daughter Karla (Mike) Doy of Geneseo; grandchildren, Matt (Dariann) Arnold, Jake (Karissa) Arnold, Trevor Specht, and Scot (Haley) Stoner, Erin (Keenan) Schumacher; 10 great grandchildren and one on the way.

He is preceded in death by his parents George and Genevieve; brother, Ronald Specht; sister, Janett Fassett; grandson, Aiden Stoner.