James Andrew Wiltz

The Dixon community has lost its music man. James A Wiltz, Dixon High School choral director passed away on December 23 at the age of 83. Focus, energy and drive was his plan for life. It was in the goals he achieved and the legacy he leaves. Jim was an encourager and motivator cleverly disguised as a music teacher. He saw the potential in every individual and was dedicated to helping them achieve their goals. Jim always expected the best and gave his best. It was his way of thinking above an impossible goal and telling yourself you can achieve it; taking the most precious dream in your heart and finding a way to pursue it. Whether it be on the tennis court, the basketball court, or on the stage, he gave from his heart. He cared not for gold or wealth, but for what was inside the heart of a friend. Each person touched him deeply and remained in his memory. His love for people was his passion and those who took the time to know him were rewarded with an honorable man's friendship. He gave his best in every task. His face showed his soul, there was never a mask. Jim held many degrees, accolades and trophies but his heart was lifted only by his connection with people. He was born on December 16, 1934, in Peoria, to Arnold and Ethel (Campbell) Wiltz of Metamora. Jim had one brother Arnold Jr. who, along with his parents, preceded him in death. Jim lettered 14 times in high school sports and entered Illinois State University on a basketball scholarship. He graduated with a BS in vocal and instrumental Music Education. Jim received his Masters Degree from Wayne State University in Music Education and Performance. He taught music at Metamora Grade School and High School and served as the director of choral activities at Dixon High School for 35 years. Jim was a tennis coach at Newman High School, choir director of St. Patrick's Church, President of School District Eight's Illinois Music Educators Association, director of the European All State Choir, JC's teacher of the year, director and producer of award winning show choir (JW and Company), DHS half time productions, choir concerts, and full stage musicals. He also served as the assistant to Vaclov Nelhybel at Interlochen Center for the Arts. In his retirement, Jim was active in the St. Patrick's Church, St. Vincent DePaul. Jim is survived by his wife of 56 years, Sharon Dale Wiltz, of Dixon; and his children, Marci (Marie Bracciale) Wiltz of DeLand FL, Michael (Becky) Wiltz of Plano TX, Joni (Ross) Wiltz-Berkley of Lisle, and Jamie Wiltz of Dixon; he is also survived by four grandchildren; Zachary Wiltz, Trevor Wiltz, Camille Wiltz and Evelyn Berkley; sister-in-law Mardell Wiltz of Washington IL, niece Sharon (John) Wiorek of Macomb, Chris (Brian) Albright, of Washington IL, sister-in-law Julie Dale of Sterling, and niece Jennifer Gowers of New York, NY. Jim had a deep relationship with God and everything he did was rooted in his faith. He was a messenger of faith, hope and love, and was a good and faithful servant. Our family thanks him for leading us with this faith. He dedicated his life to his family and he made life fun. I'm glad we danced and sang his song, life without him will be long. A visitation will held on Friday, December 29th from 4pm-8pm at St. Patrick's Church, Holloway Center in Dixon with a scripture service at 7:45 PM. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Dixon on Saturday, December 30th at 11:00AM, with Rev. Thomas Doyle, officiating. Burial will be at Oakwood Cemetery in Dixon with a luncheon following at the St. Patrick's Church Holloway Center. Memorials may be made to St. Patrick's St. Vincent DePaul or to the James Wiltz Music Scholarship fund at Dixon High School.

James Andrew Wiltz

December 16, 1934 - December 24, 2017