James M. Schlatter

Sunday, November 17, 2019

James M. Schlatter, 89, of Avon and formerly of Brazil and Glenview, Ill., passed away Friday, Nov. 15, 2019 in his residence.

He was born in Brazil on July 27, 1930 to Howard and Bertha (Schwab) Schlatter.

He was a retired chemist for G.D. Searle in Skokie, Ill.

Jim was a 1948 graduate of Brazil Senior High School and DePauw University in 1952. He received his master's degree in chemistry at Indiana University in 1954.

Jim served his country in the U.S. Army. He attended the Brazil Lutheran Church as a child.

During his career with G.D. Searle, Jim was the lead chemist and developer of aspartame, used to make NutraSweet and Equal artificial sweeteners. He was a member of the Moose Club in Marathon, Fla. Jim liked to travel, go fishing, gardening and woodworking. He also enjoyed listening to classical and jazz music. Jim took pleasure in being able to contribute to many worthwhile charities.

Survivors include his brother, Dean J. Schlatter and wife Shirley; four nephews, Thomas H. II, John W., Stephen J. and Gregory Schlatter; two nieces, Annette Harris and Nikki Maxey; and several great-nieces and nephews.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Max and Thomas Schlatter.

Funeral services will be conducted on 11:30 a.m. Friday, Nov. 22 at French Funeral Home, 421 E. National Ave., Brazil, with Pastor Matt Douglas officiating. Burial will be in Summit Lawn Cemetery. Visitation is scheduled from 4-7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 21 in the funeral home.

The family kindly requests that memorial contributions may be made to James Schlatter Memorial Fund, c/o Chicago Community Trust, 225 N. Michigan Ave. # 2200, Chicago, IL 60601 or to a charity of your choice.

To light a candle in his memory, visit www.frenchfuneralhome.com.