James "Jim" L. Alvers, age 83 of Granite City, IL, born March 5, 1937 in East St. Louis, IL, passed away on Wednesday, April 22, 2020 at Anderson Hospital in Maryville, IL.

Jim retired from Union Pacific Railroad after 37 years of service.  In addition, he worked part-time for Cahokia Downs/Fairmont Park Racetrack for 10 years.  In his younger years he enjoyed bowling, tennis, boxing, and playing horseshoes.  He taught his kids how to play ping pong and he liked to go to the racetrack.  He was a St. Louis Cardinals fan.  Jim was a devoted husband, father and grandfather.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lloyd and Mildred nee Bovinette Alvers; three brothers; and three sisters.

He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Barbara nee Harris Alvers, whom he married June 30, 1956; five children:  Cynthia (Marty) Richter of Collinsville, IL, Rick (Lillian) Alvers of New Port, NC, Mark Alvers of Edwardsville, IL, Gary Alvers of Granite City, IL and Lee Ann (Eddy) Hutchinson of Granite City, IL; 10 grandchildren:  Amber Smith, Craig (Jessie) Smith, Christopher (Michelle) Alvers, Regina Alvers, Brence Alvers, Briana Alvers, Bryan Alvers, Kendall Alvers, Meaghan (Brandon) Malherek and Tyler Hutchinson; 6 great-grandchildren:  Nathan, Aidan, Nadine, Amelia, Jacob, and Brenna; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Private services will be held.  A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Memorials in Jim's honor may be made to American Cancer Society and mailed to the funeral home.