Jim Kilker, a friend to ATCA

Jim Kilker, a friend to ATCA

James Anthony Kilker, husband of long-time ATCA member Marie Kilker, died Aug. 16, age 86, in Bradenton, FL. Jim was known to ATCA from the many conferences he attended and as co-host with Marie of ATCA members and guests at a tour of Paris for critics in November 1999.

Jim was a professor emeritus of French Studies at Southern Illinois University Carbondale. Previously he had taught at the University of Scranton, Duquesne University and Western Illinois University. His B.A. and Ph.D. were from the University of Missouri, with a Master of Foreign Studies, University of Maryland, and Certificate, University of Paris, Sorbonne. He was awarded the Odre des Palmes Academique by the French Government and was American translator for the late Emmanuel Robles of the Goncourt Academy. He had served in the army in World War II.

He and Marie were married 48 years and had two daughters and two grandsons. Donations in his honor may be sent to the Morris Library, SIU-Carbondale. Friends may want to contact Marie via email.

Jim was a good friend to ATCA.