James Osie Berry

James Osie Berry, 84, of Hanover, IL, passed away peacefully on August 7, 2025. A funeral service will be held at Noon on Thursday, August 14, 2025, at Grace Episcopal Church in Galena, IL, where friends may gather after 11 AM until the start of the service. The burial will be in the church columbarium. The Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena is assisting the family. He was born on December 15, 1940, in Fort Wayne, IN, the son of Paul and Kathryn (Kirn) Berry. Jim grew up in Barrington, IL, and graduated from Culver Military Academy in 1959 and Northwestern University in 1963. Jim began his professional career with Procter & Gamble in Chicago before joining the Chicago Board of Trade in 1966, where he founded Berry Trading Corp. In 1967, he married the love of his life, Ann Schmid, and together they shared 58 years of marriage, raising three children—Robert (Lara) Berry, Christine (Joe) Lillie, and Elizabeth Berry. Jim was a proud grandfather to seven grandchildren: Andrew Lillie, Kate Lillie, Vija Berry, Matt Berry, Mike Lillie, Charlie Berry, and Paul Berry. He is also survived by his sisters, Mary Loupee and Susan Skarecky. From 1970 to 1999, Jim and Ann raised their family in Crystal Lake, IL. A lifelong Chicago Cubs fan, Jim was an innovator long before “side hustle” became a trend—owning and operating a Radio Shack in Crystal Lake, becoming Illinois’s first licensed hot air balloon pilot, and raising buffalo before switching to cattle. In the late 1970s, Jim began building a cattle operation with just 16 heads. Jim started Wildberry Farms, a vision that grew into a nationally respected Simmental breeding program. After retiring from the Board of Trade in 1997, he moved Wildberry Farm to Hanover and Scales Mound, IL. His annual March sale attracted buyers from across the country, and he became a leading figure in the industry, earning numerous honors, including Breeder of the Year, Seed Stock Producer, and Environmental Awards. Jim cared deeply for the land, knowing that its stewardship was key to his success, and was grateful for the loyal employees who shared his dedication. Jim’s devotion extended beyond his work—he was committed to giving back to his community, always leading with humility, generosity, and quiet strength. He never complained, worked tirelessly, and was guided by a heart of gold. His family, friends, and everyone who knew him will deeply miss him. Instead of flowers, donations may be made to Episcopal Relief & Development, www.episcopalrelief.org