James J. “Jim” Camalick
August 2, 2026 – 1:00pm cst
James J. “Jim” Camalick, 70, of Burr Ridge, formerly of Lansing, entered heaven on July 27, 2026. He shared his life with Vicki, his beloved wife of 48 years.
Together they raised eight wonderful children: Jimmy; Krystal (Eric); Amanda; Kassandra (Carter); Joshua (Olivia); Jacques (Brittany); Justice; and Jarred (Bridget). He adored his grandchildren — Madelyn, Caleb, Genevieve, Cassius, Kane — and one more on the way, due in January. Jim was the son of Eleanor and John and loving brother to Pam, Jay, Polly, Jeff, Patty, Joe, and Jane.
Growing up alongside his family, he was part of their commercial fishing business on Lake Michigan, learning the values of dedication, perseverance, and teamwork from an early age that would guide him for the rest of his life. The family later owned and operated a beloved fish shop in Calumet City, where they proudly served their community and built lasting relationships.
Driven by a passion for helping others, Jim began serving his community as a volunteer firefighter before fulfilling his calling as a firefighter and paramedic with the Lansing Fire Department. He approached every emergency with courage, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to protecting those in need. His fellow firefighters and the countless people he helped will remember him for his strength, steady presence, and selfless heart.
In addition to his service in emergency response, Jim also dedicated himself to his community through civic and faith leadership. He served on the Lansing District 158 School Board for eight years, where he worked to support local education and the well-being of students and families. He was later a deacon at the Christian Reformed Church of Western Springs for eight years, faithfully serving his church community with humility, compassion, and devotion.
Following a series of injuries that ultimately led to his retirement from the fire department, Jim found a new purpose by joining the family’s garbage and recycling business. What began as a new chapter became a lifelong career, one he embraced with the same work ethic and pride that had defined every stage of his life. He believed in the dignity of honest work and was always willing to lend a hand wherever it was needed.
Above all else, Jim was a devoted father, family man, and loyal friend. He found his greatest joy in spending time with those he loved, sharing stories, offering guidance, and creating memories that will be treasured for generations. His legacy is one of resilience, integrity, generosity, and unwavering devotion to his family and community.
A visitation will be held on Saturday, August 1, 2026 from 2pm to 6pm at Adolf & Powell Funeral Home, 7000 S Madison St, Willowbrook, IL 60527.Family and friends will gather for a 1pm Funeral Service on Sunday, August 2, 2026 at Adolf and Powell Funeral Home.
Though he is no longer with us, the lessons he taught, the lives he touched, and the love he gave will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
In Lieu of Flowers memorials can be made to the Knights of Columbus, https://www.kofc.org/get-involved/donate/.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of James “Jim”, please visit our floral store.
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