James Stephen Lane

Born on June 26, 1954, in Lindsay, Ontario, Canada, James was the son of Joseph L. Lane (d. 1969) and Helen (Schmitt) Lane (d. 1992). He became a U.S. citizen at the age of 18 and was proud of his citizenship. He is survived by his brother John (Patti) and in the past year has lost three of his siblings Mary Jo (Lucey), Virginia and Thomas (Pam) and Barbara (Driscoll) who passed away in 2015.

James’ graduated from Illinois Benedictine College (now Benedictine University) and his professional career started in 1974 as an accountant for Ceco Door Products where he progressed to the National Sales Manager before departing in 1995. After a short time running his own computer/pager/cell phone business, he then was the general manager for Chromium Industries for 15 years until his retirement in 2012.

He is survived by his children Joseph (Lisa), Brian (Jennifer), and Christine (Adam) Kwiatkowski and 9 grandchildren Ian, Austin, Vivian, Raegan, Audrey, Connor, Brady, Evan and Casey.

James was a coin collector, a devoted Chicago White Sox fan, and a lover of the simple pleasures—golf outings, a really good slice of pizza, and manning the grill (with a special talent for flank steak). He enjoyed card games, crossword puzzles, and never missed an episode of Jeopardy. He thrived on hosting big gatherings, especially around the Fourth of July. James taught his children the importance of a clean home, took great pride in his career, and will be fondly remembered for his sharp humor—and his ever-present red Solo cups.

Private services will be held.