Service Information
Service : Friday, July 3rd at 1:00 pm
Service Location: Synagogue Service
Am Shalom
840 Vernon Avenue
Glencoe IL 60022
Interment:
Private Interment at Shalom Memorial Park
Shiva Information
Am Shalom
840 Vernon Avenue
Glencoe, Illinois 60022
Friday following the service to 5 PM
Contributions
In lieu of flowers, and in keeping with the
tradition of Jim’s Pink Hat, memorial donations
may be made to:
American Cancer Society at www.cancer.org
and
Jewish United Fund Chicago (JUF) at www.juf.org
Obituary
James Rodney Anixter, “The Pink Hat Guy,” beloved husband and best friend of Lesley nee Bass for 55 wonderful years; loving father of Darren (Michelle) Anixter, Todd (Jessica) Anixter, Eric Anixter (Hannah Rosenfeld, fiancée), and Courtney Anixter (AJ Golding); cherished grandpa “Pink” of Evan (Katie), Grant, Austin, Tyler, and Jayden Anixter, Watts, Stiles, and Ronette Golding; devoted son of the late Gail and Alan Anixter; dear brother of the late Scott (Penny) Anixter; caring brother-in-law of the late Susan (Larry) Rosen; adored cousin of Jeffrey Annenberg, who was like a brother to him. Jim was a treasured uncle, cousin, and friend of many.
Jim was a visionary businessman, an industry leader, and a Chicago original. He proudly served as Executive Vice President of Anixter Brothers for 22 years before founding AZ Wire and Cable in 1988 and building it into an extraordinary family business grounded in integrity, hard work, and lasting relationships. Throughout his remarkable career, Jim earned the respect and admiration of colleagues across the electrical industry, becoming a true legend whose influence will endure for generations.
A gifted athlete and passionate sports fan, Jim was inducted into the Illinois Softball Hall of Fame, a testament to his competitive spirit and love of the game. But nowhere was his passion more evident than at Wrigley Field, where he remained a devoted Chicago Cubs fan for life. A season ticket holder for 60 years, Jim purchased his first season tickets in 1966 and, beginning in 1967, became a familiar face in the coveted front-row seats behind home plate.
To millions of baseball fans, however, Jim was simply “The Pink Hat Guy.” His unmistakable bright pink baseball cap became one of the most recognizable sights at Cubs games and a beloved symbol of Wrigley Field. The tradition began as a playful promise to his wife that she could always spot him on television, know he was exactly where he said he would be, and not “fooling around.” After the 1990 All-Star Game, the pink hat became a permanent part of Jim’s identity. Through decades of unforgettable Cubs moments, he became as much a fixture at Wrigley Field as the ivy on its walls. To generations of fans, “The Pink Hat Guy” wasn’t just a nickname; it was Jim. He will forever be remembered as a cherished part of Chicago Cubs history.
Jim never met a stranger. Whether you were a lifelong friend or someone he had just met, he had a remarkable gift for making people feel seen, welcomed, and valued. Status, title, or circumstance never mattered to him-he treated everyone with the same warmth, kindness, respect, and genuine interest. He lived authentically, never pretending to be anyone but himself. He was fiercely loyal, endlessly generous, quick with a joke, unforgettable to everyone who crossed his path, and a true mensch in every sense of the word.
Above all else, Jim’s greatest pride and deepest love was his family. Every accomplishment, every success, and every joy in his life was secondary to the people he loved most. He devoted his life to his family, and they, in turn, devoted themselves to him. His love was steadfast, his guidance unwavering, and his presence a source of strength, laughter, and comfort. While his legacy will live on in business, sports, and throughout Chicago, the love he shared with his family will remain his greatest and most enduring achievement.
Jim’s life was one of purpose, generosity, laughter, loyalty, and love. He leaves behind an extraordinary legacy that will live on in his family, his countless friends, the electrical industry he helped shape, and the city he loved so deeply. Chicago has lost one of its true originals, but “The Pink Hat Guy” will forever hold a special place in the hearts of all who knew him and in the hearts of millions who smiled each time they spotted that famous pink cap behind home plate.
In lieu of flowers, and in keeping with the tradition of Jim’s Pink Hat, memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society and Jewish United Fund Chicago (JUF). Interment private. Memorial Service Friday, July 3rd, at Am Shalom, 840 Vernon Avenue, Glencoe, IL 60022, with shiva to follow at Am Shalom. For the link to view the memorial service virtually and to leave condolences, please contact Shalom Memorial Funeral Home at www.shalommemorial.org or (847) 255-3520.
Guest Book & Memories
Share your memories and photographs below.
July 6th, 2026
When Jim gave Tina and I our pink hats when we were training in Northbrook to expand the AZ territory into New York. I will miss his phone call asking are you pitching a no hitter today or are we getting a home run. Yes , he even had a nickname for me Mrs Ruth.
~Elizabeth Vadala
~sales AZ New York, Campbell Hall
July 6th, 2026
I may never have had Jim Anixter as a friend or a family member, but he always was in the back of my mind when watching the Cubs play. I looked for him on every broadcast, knowing that when I saw him, all was well with the world. What a sad, sad loss for his family, his friends, and our fellow Cubs fans all over the country who will miss him terribly.
~Marilyn
~Long distance follower, San Jose, CA
July 6th, 2026
Even though I never met Jim- I LOVE HIS STYLE. Pink hat guy.
He was always generous with his season tickets – Very much appreciated.
We shared the lover of the game.
My Condolences to ALL . May he rest in peace.
~Lisa Gahse
~Business, Mokena
July 3rd, 2026
He was always ‘Pinky Green’ to me as he always wore a green shirt with the pink hat. It’s nice to read something about his life. RIP.
~Rita
~, Granger, IN
July 3rd, 2026
I worked for Anixter Bros. in the skokie office for 15 years and saw Jimmy in the hallways of the 6th floor! My dear friend Jean Trunek worked for Jimmy. When watching the cub game, we would always look for him, and his pink hat. So sorry for your loss.
~Laurel Klein
~Anixter employee, Clermont
July 3rd, 2026
Die hard Cardinal fan but I always loved the pink hat guy! RIP and let your memories last forever
~BM
~N/a,
July 3rd, 2026
I don’t get to many Cubs games but watch them all on tv. Like so many others I always looked for the man in the pink hat, I affectionately called him Pinky. My deepest sympathy goes to his wife and entire family on the loss of such an amazing man!! The game on tv will never be the same without seeing Pinky 😢
~Lori Kenny
~Fellow Die Hard Cubs Fan, Alsip, Il
July 3rd, 2026
Jim Anixter was larger than life man. He was a guy that everyone wanted to be around as he left an ever lasting impression with anyone that was lucky enough to have known him. Warm, kind, generous, his passion and knowledge for sports was at a level very few could ever achieve and always the funniest guy in the room. Love never ends. My deepest condolences to the whole Anixter family and friends. Especially to Leslie his loving wife for 55 years. ❤️
~Derek Lurie
~Friend, Chicago, IL
July 3rd, 2026
Although I did not know Jim, I knew the name through my father, Donald Reinle who worked for T&B. RIP
~Wendy Liaromatis
~, OH
July 3rd, 2026
Leslie, We echo everything that has been said by previous posts. It is an honor to have known you and Jim for over 40 years.
~Elayne and Howard Leshtz
~friend, SCOTTSDALE
July 3rd, 2026
I am sad to hear about Jimmy’s passing. I sat across the isle from Jimmy at many games over the years. What I remember most is his love of the game. I have never seen anyone who had the knowledge about the Cubs as Jimmy. One story comes to mind is when I brought a friend to the game. His uncle pitched very briefly for the Cubs back in the seventies. Not only did Jimmy remember the guy he remembered the pitches that he had thrown during the few innings of his career. I had always thought that the Cubs could have used Jimmy as a consultant. He truly had a one of a kind mind. The world is a darker place without Jim in it. I am blessed to have known him and I will remember and miss him every single time I watch the Cubs. Rest well Jim and my condolences to his family and all of the other people touched by his passing.
~Ray Skillings
~Friend, Illinois
July 3rd, 2026
So sorry for your family’s loss
Andy and Steve Migdal
~Andrea Migdal
~Friend, Delray Beach, Fla
July 3rd, 2026
Jim was one of the funniest and sweetest guys I ever met. Who could ever forget his Frankenstein walk through the HPHS lunch room while the whole place erupted in laughter and clapping. He was dedicated to his family, community and friends, of whom he had many because everyone who met him was his friend. He was the legendary Cubs fan who sat behind home plate with his signature pink hat. Whenever he sat down, the announcers on TV said, “There’s the pink hat guy.” Maybe now they’ll put a name to it. He was such a great fan that he even took his kids to the Cubs spring practice in Arizona. What a cordial, caring, funny guy! He will be missed by everyone who had the good fortune to know him. May his memory be for a blessing.
~Leslie U. Harris
~Highland Park High School friend, Brasilia, Brazil
July 3rd, 2026
Dear Lesley and family
Deepest sympathy from the Martini family on the sudden and shocking passing of Jim. Prayers for everyone, Lesley. and may Jim REST IN PEACE…
Lou, Tina, Paul
~LOU Martini
~Friend and neighbor, Highland Park, IL
July 3rd, 2026
I never had the pleasure of meeting him, but he was an institution for faithful Cubs fans. Seeing the pink cap meant all was right with the world. We know he’ll continute to support our Cubs and maybe put in a good word for a repeat World Series win on the tenth anniversary of our awesome 2016 season. May his memory be for a blessing. Rest well, Mr Anixter
~Janet Byrne
~, Chicago
July 3rd, 2026
Dear Eric and family,
I’m so so sorry to hear about your loss. I have such fond memories of your family and all the wonderful times at your home growing up. I’m thinking of you all during this trying time and sending you lots of love.
Best,
Meredith Gelman
~Meredith Gelman
~, Vernon Hills, IL
July 3rd, 2026
Pink Hat, we hardly knew ye…………………from afar, you were our guiding star……………………grew up in Glenview………………… now live in Ft.Myers, Fl.
Raising a glass to you, a void that will never be filled……………….Peace out…………..
~Patricia Codey
~admirer, Fort Myers, FL
July 2nd, 2026
Watching on TV from Colorado we simply called him “Pink.” Now for eternity he’s “in the front row.”
~Greg May
~Fan, Lakewood, Co
July 2nd, 2026
As a part time right fielder for the Bombers or attending a class of ’62 reunion, or a Cubs game, the experience was always enhanced by the most generous guy I ever knew, Jim. When my nephew turned 16, raised in California, all he wanted for his birthday was to attend a Cubs game at Wrigley. I called Jim and you know what happened, a seat behind home plate with the “Pink Hat Guy.” I could never replay Jim for his kindness and generosity but fate made it happen in some small way.
When Hurricane Ike forced MLB to move the Cubs Astros game from Houston to Miller Park I grabbed a dozen seats behind home plate and convinced Jim to drive to Milwaukee where we watched Zambrano toss a no hitter. May his memory be a blessing.
~Paul Soglin
~High School classmate, Madison WI
July 2nd, 2026
Jim will be remembered in our hearts as a devoted husband, family man and friend He frequently spoke of his children and grand- children and their accomplishments His love for Leslie was highlighted by his words, “Leslie is my one and only.” She always takes care of me and makes all the social plans. His joy for life was shown by his stories, smile and sense of humor. His military service, travels and frequent family gatherings were common topics. We will miss all the unique and special ways in which Jim made people happy.
~Michael Goldberg and Michael Goldberg
~Friends, Highland Park
July 2nd, 2026
My husband always looked for “the pink hat green shirt guy” when watching the Cubs games. I was lucky enough to get my picture taken with hin on opening day 2009! Going to miss seeing him at the games.
~Rebecca Wilford
~, Cedar Rapids
July 2nd, 2026
Jim was such a genuine friendly and enthuastic soul. I remember having dinner as a guest in his home. I went withJim and his family in 5th grade before a boy scout induction at Ravinia School. He was always kind and generous . Through the years we were lucky to have shared so many memories of growing up in Highland Park. WE even watched games from afar and knew he would probably leave the Cubs home games around the 7th inning to avoid the crowds. When entering the Cubs stadium so many of the staff would light up to see him .
May he rest in peace and know that we send our hugs to his family.
~Susan Sutker
~Friend from Ravinia School, Edgewood School and HPHS! We shared reunions and rides to Cub games with other classmates!, Springfield
July 2nd, 2026
My mother worked at Anixter for 38 years. I worked there at a young age because of her relationship with the Anixters. When I started my rep business, in 1989, Jim went out of his way to help me get started. Jimmy as I know him, was the nicest guy and would go out of his way to help you. Full circle, my daughter is now friends with Courtney, Jim’s daughter. He will be missed.
~Bruce Ratskoff
~Friend, Buffalo Grove
July 2nd, 2026
I met Jim in the 1980’s when we both worked at 4711 Golf Rd in Skokie. Jim took me with him to several Cubs games which were always so much fun. In the 1990’s Jim and I were on a team that won the Tennis Calcutta at.Northmoor CC. Jim was truly a wonderful man who will be missed and remembered by all of the many friends and family who had the pleasure of knowing him.
~Burt Skolnik
July 2nd, 2026
My husband and I watch every Cub game on TV due to health issues. We always look for “Pink and Green”. We remember seeing him early in the season and have been wondering for a while now where he was. Our friends in Nebraska always look for him as well. It is not quite the same when he is “absent”. We were saddened to learn the reason for his absence. Our sincere condolences to the the family.
~Elaine and Alvern Kraatz
~A die hard Cub fan., Skokie
July 2nd, 2026
Leslie
We are so sad to hear about Jimmy. He has left an amazing legacy and will be remembered by so many friends, colleagues, Cub’s fans, and most importantly his family!
We send our condolences to you all.
Lynne and Steve Marcus
~Lynne. & Steve Marcus
~Friend, Highland Park IL
July 2nd, 2026
I worked at Michael’s Red Hots for many years. When he would come in to order for his family he would make sure everyone was taken care of. We would talk about the Cubs on many occasions. I remember waiting on Darren and Todd and getting them seasoned salt for their food. I hope your family will have wonder memories.
~Debbie Carlson
~, Kenosha
July 2nd, 2026
Former Chicagoans and lifelong Cub fans. Always looked for Mr Anixter behind home plate as we cheered on the Cubbies. A generous man. May he rest in peace.
~Andi & Jay Sanes
~Cub fan, Tucson, AZ
July 2nd, 2026
I met Jim back in the 80’s when I worked for Anixter. It was before he was the pink hat guy but was still a huge Cubs fan. He was always nice and very knowledgeable about wire and cable. He was missed when he and Bob left to start A to Z. My condolences to his family and those at A to Z carrying on the Anixter tradition.
~Arlene DuPont
~Former Anixter Employee,
July 2nd, 2026
Dear Lesley,
I only met Jimmy a few times but I do know of your love for him as well as the love of your children and grandchildren. Please accept my condolences for your loss. May his memory be for a blessing.
~Sherry Fox
~Friend of Lesley, Delray Beach
July 2nd, 2026
My mother worked at Anixter for 35 years and with Jimmy for 30 of those years. His generosity knew no bounds.
Because of my Jimmy, I was able to sit in his seats countless times, highlighted by witnessing Ernie Banks’s last career HR on my 10th Birthday (8/24/1971). As a kid, I thought everyone had seats like his. As an adult, I came to realize that only thru Jimmy’s generosity, were a select few able to do so.
Thanks to Jimmy, Alan, Bill and people like Bob Wilson (and, of course, my mother Kay Schoenbrod-Zimmerman), I was able to work 6 summers at Anixter Brothers. Times, I will never forget. R.I.P., Jimmy.
~Brett Livengood
~Anixter Employee and Friend, Apple River, Illinois
July 2nd, 2026
Every Cubs game I watch with my family I always look for “Mr. Pink Hat”. It just never seemed right when others would sit in his seat. Although I did not know Jim he made me smile when I would see him behind home plate. Forever it will be “Mr. Pink Hat Seat”. Condolences to the Anixter family. Rest in peace and Go Cubs Go!
~Alma
~Cubs Fan, Mishawaka, IN
July 2nd, 2026
I am deeply saddened by Jimmy’s passing. My dad Bill loved him like a son and I loved him like an older brother. I knew him my whole life. He was always there for me very supportive through difficult situations in my life. I work for AZ for 12 years and worked for Anixter starting at six years old for a dollar a day. Jimmy was always present in my life and will continue to be so through his wonderful spirit and wicked sense of humor. My dad said that Jimmy had a heart like a bushel basket and that is completely true. I will miss going to Cubs games and talking baseball with him. He was an extraordinary unique individual who loved his family even more than the Cubs and business which he excelled in. I will celebrate his life, which will always put a smile on my face. My deepest condolences go out to his immediate family, who I love very much. We were all very lucky to have had Jimmy as long as we did. He made everybody around him, feel special before thinking of himself. He was sunshine to me and a lot of people on every rainy day! God bless your soul, Jimmy. I miss you a lot already. You were the greatest a true legend! Once again, deepest condolences and respect. to Lesley, Courtney, Todd, Darren and Eric at this difficult time.
~Jason Anixter
~First cousin, Bainbridge Island
July 2nd, 2026
My condolences to your family . I always looked for “The Pink Hat Guy” at the games….seeing him at the first game he attended after COVID gave me such comfort & joy! I said ” Hey The Pink Hat Guy is at the game….all is ok now! Thank you.
~Carol Hickey
~, AURORA
July 2nd, 2026
We got to know Jim because he was one of our first customers back in 1971 when we opened Franco and Pino Hairstyling in Highland Park. His friendly, fun and affable personality quickly made him a salon favorite. You could always count on good conversation when Jim came in.
We consider it a privilege to have known Jim and to have spent many hours discussing the Cubs, their wins and losses and best draft picks.
We will always remember Jim with love and fondness.
Our most heartfelt sympathy to the Anixter family.
~Pino and Mary Cisternino Franco and Milena Cisternino
~, Highwood
July 2nd, 2026
I’m just an Old Timer, Die Hard Cubs fan who will miss Mr. Anixter behind home plate. I always looked for that Pink Cap, whether I was at home watching on tv or at Wrigley Field. I’m very saddened by his passing. My sincerest Condolences to all.
~Nancy
~, Elmwood Park
July 2nd, 2026
Allen & Jimmy would come into our Delis in Deerfield and was a Multiplex Member ! His wife and kids are just tremendous people ! I was lucky enough to call him our friend! God bless my man !
~Andrew & Erika Wagner
~Friend, Riverwoods
July 2nd, 2026
My condolences to family and friends. As a Cubs fan, I knew him as the pink hat guy. My mom and I watched the games and she would remark that he was there everytime. I never met him, but I felt like he was an old friend. May he rest in peace and look over the Cubs and give them a nudge when needed.
~Jeanne
~Fan, Portage, Indiana
July 2nd, 2026
Life long memories of a wonderful Cub fan and an incredible family man!!
~Ed Orlowsky
~Friend, Highland Park, IL
July 2nd, 2026
I’m sorry for your loss. I am a die hard Cubs fan also. I always looked for him when I watched the Cubs on tv. Sending prayers.
~Veronica Jphnson
~none, Charleston West Virginia
July 2nd, 2026
The “Pink Hat Guy” will be remembered and sorely missed by all who knew him. Jim was a role model in the way he conducted his life – from his success in business and as the loving Patriarch of his family. We will miss his lively personality, his nicknames, and his joy in life. With great affection, Lynne and Allan Reich
~Lynne and Allan Teich
~Friends, Chicago, Ill
July 2nd, 2026
Always looking for Jim in his pink hat behind home plate @Wrigley field! Jim sent me a pink hat a few years ago and I’ve wore it @ all cub games on my tv!
~Steve Dolieslager
~Friend, Kewanee, Il
July 2nd, 2026
My sisters and niece are life long fans of the Cubs. We would do a group chat while watching the games and would always look for Pink Hat Guy. We would get excited whenever we saw him. Rest in peace Mr. Anixter.
~Mary Yurkiw
~Cubs fan and admirer of Pink Hat Guy, Sleepy Hollow
July 2nd, 2026
I worked with Jimmy for many years at Anixter and he was so funny and sweet. I’m not a Cubs fan but always turned on the game just to see him sitting in the front row in his Pink Hat. I was secretary to John Pigott and John and Jimmy were two of my favorite people at Anixter. RIP Jimmy…say hi to John for me!
~Jan Divito Brady
~Co-works at Anixter, Lakewoood, IL
July 2nd, 2026
I worked at Anixter Corp for 23 years and knew what a kind man Jimmy was. I was able to use his Cub’s tickets several times. I also visited his new company many times when I was in town. His love of his family was obvious.
~judith wennerstrand
~Friend & Ex-employee, Clearwater, FL
July 2nd, 2026
Thank you, Pink Hat Guy, for donating Cubs tickets to the Foundation Fighting Blindness. We four girls bought them at auction and had a wonderful day at Wrigley, wearing pink hats in your honor. It was amazing!
~Ellen R.
~, Chicago
July 2nd, 2026
Truly a wonderful person and dear longtime friend of both myself and my father Al Smith an Anixter Bros. Employee from 1971-1995. I was also employed by A-Z from
2010-2012. I am very grateful for my time being a part of your team. My thoughts, condolences and prayers are with Jim and the Anixter family as we remember a legend, and genuine person who was near and dear to our family. Rest in eternal peace, your generosity and kindness will live on forever.
Eric Smith
~Eric “Smitty” Smith
~Friend, Northbrook, IL
July 2nd, 2026
It was automatic. As soon as I saw Wrigley Field I had to look for “Mr. Pink Hat”. Every single home game. He was a landmark for me. I wonder, will his sons carry on the tradition?
~Vickie Ratlff
~just a Cubs fan, OTTAWA
July 2nd, 2026
Sitting down the 3rd base line in the 1st row of section 204 Jim would walk by me on way out of games for over 25 years. He would stop every time to say hello and undoubtedly tell me (and my two boys) what the problem was. My boys are now 15 and 17 and Jimmy’s stop and chats will be a fond memory. The Price family ( Todd, Marci, Carson and Rocky) sends love and our deepest condolences on the loss. Lots of people will miss him.
~Todd Price
~Fellow Cubs fan, Chicago IL
July 2nd, 2026
Seeing the Pink Hat Guy at Wrigley Field!
~Cathy Alfrey
~Cub fan, Goshen, Indiana
July 2nd, 2026
I met Jim on the phone in 2016. He had his Cubs ticket agent help me get tickets to a game when secondary market tickets were outrageous for the Giants series in September (watched Arrieta vs Bumgarner).
He was very friendly and nice to talk to. He helped me – a person he’d only talked to on the phone a few times – for no other reason except that was just the kind of guy he was.
~Jonathan Presswood
~Acquaintance, Benton, AR
July 2nd, 2026
My husband is a true Cubs fan and I started watching and learning about the game. But many years ago watching the Cubs on TV I noticed a “Guy with the pink hat on” and every home game I would always look for him and just knew that he was a True fan. May you RIP and will miss seeing you and your Pink hat. Sending condolences to his family and all that loved him. I’m going to see the Cubs in AZ in August and will think of the guy in the pink hat.
~Tricia Pagoria
~just a person who looked for the guy in pink hat, Maricopa Az
July 2nd, 2026
We always watched for Mr. Anixter’s front row pink hat. Wrigley will not be the same without you, sir. May God grant your family peace and comfort and may God give us Cubbies just one more! God Bless.
~Mr. and Mrs. Jack Wilkinson
~none, Memphis, TN
July 2nd, 2026
It was with great sadness that we heard about Jim’s passing. He was one of the kindest, most generous men we have ever met. We shared his love of the CUBS. Today, the CUBS won 23-3 in Wrigley Field. That is an amazing score! And, the CUBS hit 8 HOME RUNS…an all-time CUBS record. There is no doubt that Jim is coaching from Heaven! Our deepest sympathy to his loving family.
~Arlene and Keith Bronstein
~friend, Scottsdale, Arizona
July 2nd, 2026
Seeing him at Cubs games and on TV meant it was baseball season. While I never met him, I enjoyed his story and seeing him on TV behind home plate. His pink hat will be missed and belongs in the hall of fame. Rest in peace.
~Jack Fairchilds
~Fan, Ellisville, MS
July 2nd, 2026
Jim was a friend/client of mine for many years. We would talk quarterly about the Cubs and then he would purchase Breast Cancer awareness messages from me… he once asked me to meet him by Ruth Chris in Northbrook and he drove me with 2 others to Wrigley Field… we sat behind home plate..we stayed the whole game(rare for Jim)… it was a great day and priceless memory and I will miss talking Cubs and working with Jimmy! May his memory be a blessing
~ALAN Edward BRODSKY
~Friend, Vernon Hills
July 2nd, 2026
What a great guy and great friend. What a great family man as well. Jim’s pride in his family was apparent as he described their achievements and kindness to each other. Jim was there for his friends as well, always loyal and caring. Seriously one of the most kindly people I have ever met. Also a super businessman who treated his employees well. He did many mitzvahs, whether in donations to worthy causes or simply making others feel seen and important. Mensch is the right word for our HPHS classmate and friend Jimmy. May his memory be a blessing forever.
~Elaine Howard
~High school classmate and friend, IL
July 2nd, 2026
We always would look for the pink hat guy. He was and always will be an important person and fan to all Cubs fans. I hope he is playing catch with Ryno and all the Cubbies who are waiting to greet him. We all will miss our “Pink Hat Guy”. We would worry about him when he wasnt at a game. He became part of our Cubs Season ticket holder family. I will wear a pink hat in his honor to the next game I go to. This one hurts and I want to extend
much love to all his family and friends.
~Kimmy
~Cubs fan, Chicago Illinois
July 2nd, 2026
True story: I once dressed up as “Pink Hat Green Shirt Guy” for Halloween (didn’t know his name back then). When my dad was alive, we’d call each other during or after Cubs games to compare notes on what inning it was when we saw Pink Hat Guy leave, and we’d take turns guessing what occupation he had, how many pink hats and green shirts he actually owned, etc. Thank you, Mr. Anixter, for keeping us Cubs fans guessing and entertained all these years!
~Cindy
~Fan, Aguanga, CA
July 2nd, 2026
Just another Cubs fan enjoying watching the games on TV and looking for the pink hat guy and others in attendance with him
He was a true fan
He will be missed
Rest in Peace Mr Pink Hat Man and condolences to his Family and friends
~Cheryl Rudd
~, Schaumburg Il
July 2nd, 2026
I went to Wrigley for the first time in 2023 and I sat in the bleachers. All I wanted to do was go see the Pink Hat Guy. I didn’t get over to his section but I did find him with my binoculars. I was so happy. I will miss seeing him behind home plate. I’m so sorry for your loss.
~Kristy
~Cubs Fan, Tucson, AZ
July 2nd, 2026
Such a nice man. I still have the hat he gave me 13 years ago. Assisted with a few of his vehicle purchases and he was so kind!
~Rob
~, Northfield,IL
July 2nd, 2026
I may have never had the privilege to have met Jim, but in all the years… Decades I’ve watched our beloved Chicago Cubs, I quickly got familiar with him and his presence at all home games. So much so it was noticeable when he would not attend. Once I learned the story and reasoning behind the Pink Hat I knew that he was a good man through and through. He was as much part of Chicago Cubs baseball as the blue pinstripes on their home uniforms and will be missed not only by all who know him, but true die hard fans that wish they had gotten the chance to say hello to him just once. Godspeed Jim.
~Michael McClure
~, Schaumburg
July 2nd, 2026
I never met Jim, but the day before he passed, I had the opportunity to take my two boys and wife to a Cubs game in his seats. Jim’s incredible generosity allowed us to make a truly unforgettable memory. I learned of his passing only as I was attempting to send him a thank you note from my boys.
We thank you, Jim! I’m sure that like us, you have impacted many, far beyond yourself, over the decades.
Condolences to the Anixter family.
-Ryan Garrett
~Ryan Garrett
~Business, Greensboro, NC
July 2nd, 2026
I never met Jim, but the day before he passed, I had the opportunity to take my two boys and wife to a Cubs game in his seats. Jim’s incredible generosity allowed us to make a truly unforgettable memory. I learned of his passing only as I was attempting to send him a thank you note from my boys.
We thank you, Jim! I’m sure that like us, you have impacted many, far beyond yourself, over the decades. Condolences to the Anixter family.
~Ryan Garrett
~Business, Greensboro, NC
July 2nd, 2026
We first met in high school in 1963. My memories of Jim revolve around the Cubs where we both attended the original old timers Cub camp. I saw Jim the last 25 years mainly on TV sitting behind home plate. He was a unique loving person and always had time to talk to everyone he encountered.
~Larry Gore
~Friend, Santa Barbara,ca
July 2nd, 2026
From Lincoln School pancake days to father’s lodge at Ojibwa to lunchtime softball versus the counselors to Wrigley Field at those awesome seats to so many fun dinners … fond memories of Jim always upbeat, unending antidotes and stories … you will be missed … our deepest condolences to Leslie and the entire family on your loss
~Barbara and Robert Paget
~Long time friends, Highland Park, Illinois
July 1st, 2026
I’m deeply saddened by the loss of Jim, our pink hat guy. His warmth, humor, and unwavering commitment to fairness made work conversations brighter and days smoother.
This company feels like a family in large part because of his kindness and dedication. He leaves behind a legacy of integrity, generosity, and camaraderie.
Jason Ryan Nelson Sr.
~Mr Jason Nelson
~Employee, Katy
July 1st, 2026
Jimmy always called me the realtor who sold his mothers house and his Kissinger !
He was a very dear person and a fun friend to be with.
We loved him and his pink hat!
He will be missed !
~Merle Styer
~He was a dear friend / client, Highland park
July 1st, 2026
Jim was the most authentic person I have ever known. No pretenses, no entitlement , no hiding of imperfections. I worked closely with him on our 50th and 60th reunions and was so impressed with his contributions not only financially but logistically and creatively. Most importantly, he was able to laugh at himself and brought everyone on board to engage in the laughter. We will miss him.
~Lynn Schechter Salit
~Friend since kindergarten, Highland Park, Illinois
July 1st, 2026
Jim was a incredible person with a big heart. He had a huge impact in the community, and was an exceptional father. May his legend always live on, Sending love and prayers to your family.
May Jim’s memory be a blessing.
~Erik & Sarah Gimbel
~Family friend, Highland Park, IL
July 1st, 2026
I met Jim Over 40 years ago when I was a Warehouseman – Part-Time Salesman learning the ropes and he took the time to sit down with me and shared his wisdom and sales tips. It really meant a lot to me.
~Thomas (Tom) Manning
~Employee, Arlington, TX
July 1st, 2026
A true joy to be with. Always upbeat. A true mensch. Considerate of others, charitable and kind. A great family man. May his memory be for a blessing.
~Harvey and Jackie Barnett
~Long time friends, Highland Park, Ill.
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