Rev. James W. Kinn, Pastor Emeritus of Santa Maria del Popolo Parish, Dies at 94

The longtime priest was remembered for his dedication to the Catholic faith and his pastoral care for parishioners.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Rev. James W. Kinn, the pastor emeritus of Santa Maria del Popolo Parish in Mundelein, Illinois, passed away peacefully on February 8, 2026, at the age of 94. Fr. Kinn had a lifelong dedication to the Catholic faith, serving as a priest for over 60 years in various parishes before his long tenure at Santa Maria del Popolo.

Why it matters

Fr. Kinn's passing marks the end of an era for the Santa Maria del Popolo Parish community, which he served faithfully for two decades. His legacy as a caring shepherd and prolific author on Catholic theology and spirituality will continue to inspire those who knew him.

The details

Born in Chicago in 1931, Fr. Kinn pursued his priestly vocation, attending Quigley Preparatory Seminary and the University of St. Mary of the Lake/Mundelein Seminary. He was ordained in 1957 and went on to serve in various assistant pastor roles before becoming the pastor of St. Bride Parish and then Santa Maria del Popolo Parish, where he ministered for 20 years until 2002.

  • Fr. Kinn was born on November 22, 1931.
  • He was ordained to the priesthood on May 3, 1957.
  • Fr. Kinn served as pastor of Santa Maria del Popolo Parish from 1982 to 2002.
  • He passed away peacefully on February 8, 2026, at the age of 94.

The players

Rev. James W. Kinn

The pastor emeritus of Santa Maria del Popolo Parish in Mundelein, Illinois, who dedicated over 60 years of his life to the Catholic priesthood.

Rev. Daniel F. Sullivan

A classmate and close friend of Fr. Kinn, who remembered him as a caring and sensitive shepherd deeply attentive to parishioners in need.

Most Rev. Timothy J. O'Malley

The auxiliary bishop of Chicago who will be the main celebrant at Fr. Kinn's funeral Mass.

Rev. Miguel A. Martinez

The current pastor of Santa Maria del Popolo Parish who will serve as the homilist at Fr. Kinn's funeral Mass.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Fr. Kinn was a caring and sensitive shepherd, deeply attentive to parishioners in need, especially the sick.”

— Rev. Daniel F. Sullivan, Classmate and close friend of Fr. Kinn (southwestregionalpublishing.com)

What’s next

All funeral services for Fr. Kinn will be held at Santa Maria del Popolo Parish in Mundelein. The lying in state will take place on Monday, February 23, 2026, from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m., followed by the funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m.

The takeaway

Fr. Kinn's lifelong dedication to the Catholic faith, his scholarly contributions, and his compassionate pastoral care have left a lasting legacy in the Santa Maria del Popolo Parish community and beyond. His passing marks the end of an era, but his impact will continue to inspire those who knew him.