Jay A. Van Kampen

Jay A. Van Kampen, passed away May 7, 2020 due to complications of COVID-19. Beloved husband of Carol nee Barnes; devoted dad of Emily and adored grandpa of Sophia; loving brother of Alice (Al) Nickles, Phyllis (Bert) Rabbers. and Michelle “Mycky” Van Kampen; dearest son-in-law of Helen Barnes (Jim Kedge) fond brother-in-law of Deborah Coaker (John Karcher), Barbara (Bruce) Olson, Mary Cruse, George (Penny) Barnes, Julie Barnes, and Kenneth (Corrine) Barnes; caring uncle and great-uncle to many nieces and nephews. Jay was preceded in death by his parents Abe and Martha Van Kampen, his father-in-law, Tad Barnes, and his brothers-in-law, Bob Coaker and Jerry Cruse.

Jay lived in Cicero his entire life. He was a retired Cicero police officer and had currently been employed by FedEx; Jay enjoyed his job. He participated in truck rodeos, winning several awards. Jay loved a good BBQ, smashed pennies, the CUBS, music, trains, trucks, and road trips to unique venues and museums. Most of all he loved the thrill of a good estate sale. Family was his world, marrying his "lovely bride" 38 years ago.

Family and friends will gather for his Celebration of Life, Sat., Aug. 14, 2021 from 10:30 AM until time of Service 1:00 PM at Chapel Hill Gardens West Funeral Home, 17W201 Roosevelt Road, Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181. Interment Private at Chapel Hill Gardens West Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Rescues Without Borders, www.rescureswithoutborders.org. will be appreciated. Info 630-941-5860 or www.chapelhillgardenswest.com.