James Louis Clingingsmith, age 79, of Woodstock, formerly of Arlington Heights, passed away Sunday, February 5, 2017 surrounded by his loving family.

He was born May 4, 1937 in Malden, MO to Oda L. and Helen (Minton) Clingingsmith. On August 6, 1960, he married the love of his life, Joan L.Clancy, in Daguscahonda, PA.

James proudly served in the United States Air Force as a Special Forces Intelligence field operative from 1955 until 1960. He was an Atomic Veteran, who served with the Joint Task Force Seven in the Spring of 1958, and participated in Operation Hardtack on Johnston Island for atomic bomb testing. He also worked on the security detail for Dr. Von Braun.

While residing in Arlington Heights, James was very active as a Scout Master with The Boy Scouts of America, Cub Scouts, Indian Guides, and the local youth softball team, of which he helped organize and coach. For over 25 years, he was a valued sales engineer for Stackpole Carbon Company in St. Mary’s, PA. James eventually started his own sales rep service for carbon graphite products.

James was a devout member and participated in the prayer line at The Church of Holy Apostles in McHenry. He was also a member of The Knights of Columbus Council #1288. Known for having a great love of his family, he took great pride in spending time with his grandchildren and being involved with their activities

James is survived by his wife of 56 years, Joan; three sons, James Jr. (Chris) Clingingsmith, Michael (Kelly) Clingingsmith, Patrick Clingingsmith; five grandchildren, Katie (Ken) Winkelman, James III (Dana) Clingingsmith, Brittany Clingingsmith, Ashley Clingingsmith, Michael Clingingsmith Jr.; three great-grandchildren, Emmett, Everett, Colton; two sisters, Billie Jean (Gary) Pearson and Marylee Thomas.

James was preceded in death by his parents.

Friends and neighbors may gather from 1 p.m. until 3 p.m, Friday, February 10, 2017, at The Church of Holy Apostles, 5211 W. Bull Valley Road, McHenry, IL 60050. The funeral Mass will be at 3 p.m.

Interment will be in The Church of Holy Apostles Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the The Church of Holy Apostles, 5211 W. Bull Valley Road, McHenry, IL 60050, or to the St. Vincent dePaul Society, c/o The Church of Holy Apostles.

For information, please contact Justen Funeral Home & Crematory at 815-385-2400, or visit www.justenfh.com, where friends may leave an on-line condolence message for his family.