James Gregory Sacks – Beloved Fiancé, Cherished Son and Brother, Nephew, Cousin and Friend
James Gregory Sacks, age 35, left this world suddenly on November 2, 2025. He was born in St. Louis, MO to Gregory Sacks and Sandra Sacks (née Schlesinger) on July 2, 1990. He is survived by his brother, Steven Sacks (Bailey Crase). He graduated from Rockwood Summit High School in 2009 and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from University of Missouri St. Louis in 2015.
Jim brought joy beyond measure to his parents and memories so sweet they will be safely tucked away in their hearts forever. The beautiful soul he always was, and the amazing man he grew into, was a source of tremendous pride to them. He was admired by his brother, who was a fun and loving companion his entire life.
Jim was engaged to the love of his life, Dr. Madison (Maddie) Etling. They met ten years ago through mutual friends and maintained a four-year long-distance relationship as Maddie attended dental school at UMKC. On his birthday, July 2, 2024, Jim received the best birthday gift ever when Maddie happily said “Yes!” to his marriage proposal! Their love for one another radiated and was palpable to all in their presence.
Jim’s future in-laws, the Etling family, loved him as if he were their own and Jim felt the same about them. Maddie’s parents, David and Kim, and Maddie’s siblings, Ashley and Eric (Laura), the Hudson family and even Kygo were very close to Jim and enjoyed their many get-togethers with him. Ashley’s son, Aven, was very special to Jim, as were all of Maddie’s extended family.
After graduating college, Jim went to work full time at his family’s business, Superior Elevator Inspections. He worked his way into a management position under the tutelage of his father, Greg, with the intention that he would one day take over as President while Greg worked toward retirement. In March of 2022, Greg was diagnosed with ALS and Jim stepped up to fill his dad’s shoes. In the summer of 2024, he assumed the role of President. He proved to be a natural leader and an amazing businessman, making his parents very proud as they confidently entrusted the family business to him. Jim enjoyed working alongside his brother, Steven, every day and Steven learned so much from him in those daily interactions. He loved the people he was fortunate enough to interact with at work, including business associates near and far, and considered his dedicated employees, the amazing team at Superior, to be amongst his dearest friends.
Jim had so many beloved friends, many of whom were the best of friends since childhood. To his friends, he was known to always have a smile on his face, warmth in his heart, and a clever comeback ready on his lips. He brought so much laughter with his great sense of humor and dance moves. His big heart made him quick to forgive and he had an authenticity that was invaluable. He was the definition of a true friend and he loved the children and pets of his friends as if they were his own.
Jim’s maternal family was extremely large and his fraternal family was much smaller. However the close bonds that formed in both families were priceless. Through the years, he admired and embraced the unique qualities each grandparent, aunt and uncle, including multigenerational, possessed. He loved them dearly and felt cherished by each. He was profoundly grateful and delighted in the many close relationships he shared with his cousins. The relationships he formed with his cousin’s children were magical. To see them light up around him, matching his light, was a gift to behold.
Jim enjoyed music of many genres, spanning many decades and music often moved him deeply. He had a great appreciation for music on vinyl and live performances. He was a huge sports fan, never missing many Blues hockey games, Cardinals baseball games and Mizzou and NFL football games. He enjoyed being in a Fantasy Football league and looked forward to his weekly bowling league with his friends.
He had a strong sense of philanthropy, having raised money for St. Baldricks Foundation (Childhood Cancer Research) by shaving his head. In addition, the family tradition of giving money to strangers during the holidays, brought him immense joy. As a child, he joyously played the part of “Jingles”, Santa’s Elf, along with Santa’s Helper (Greg). Each year, all proceeds were donated to the 100 Neediest Cases program.
Services: Funeral at Kutis Affton Chapel, 10151 Gravois, St. Louis, MO 63123, Monday, Nov. 10, Visitation (Open Casket) – 2:00 – 3:00 PM Visitation (Closed Casket) – 3:00 – 7:00 PM, Service – 7:00 PM
In lieu of flowers, contributions to a food pantry of your choice, or Team Gleason (an ALS foundation), or the ALS Association (St. Louis Regional Chapter) would be appreciated.
Michael will miss telling his stories to Jim, he always wanted to hear Michael’s stories when he came into office. Jim was one of a kind and truly will be missed. We love you Jim.
I didn’t know Jim well except to know he was a wonderful human being. He was always kind and considerate. There was a peace about him that always made me feel welcomed. I am so sorry for his lose and pray that everyone he was close to finds peace and thankfulness at having known him.
Maddie’s Aunt
My brother was extremely close with Jim, and it deeply saddens me to hear this news. I am not sure what to say but I hope everyone finds peace and happiness in knowing Jim.
For the sake of the living, we must part with the dead.
I recently caught wind of the heartbreaking news of Jimmy’s passing. My earliest memories of him are of a playful, carefree kid with whom I used to roughhouse. I took great joy in watching his growth into adulthood, all the while he maintained the exuberance, energy, and spirit of a child. At family gatherings, I don’t think either of us ever “graduated” to the “adult table”… nor did we want to. He was always ready for a good time, full of laughter, love, and an endlessly cheerful attitude. But the true beauty of Jimmy’s life was watching that playful boy grow into a man of great substance.
He carried himself with such poise and purpose. Whether he was guiding the family business with the wisdom of a seasoned leader or lighting up a room with his dance moves and quick wit, he lived authentically. It is difficult to reconcile the loss of someone so vibrant who served as a cornerstone for a loving, caring, and close-knit family.
To the family and to Maddie (sadly, whom I never had the chance to meet): I know the camaraderie and closeness of your circle feels irreversibly shattered right now. I hope you can find some refuge in the enduring love that his spiritual energy carries forward, alongside the beautiful memories he left for all. He loved you all fiercely, and that love and caring spirit remains the most genuine part of his legacy.