Husband to Drita Kaculi and father to Jason and Kayla Kaculi, Jim Kaculi was regarded as a pillar of his community.
Jim was born in Mat, Albania to Tahir and Safije Kaculi. Jim, alongside his seven siblings, had humble beginnings in their small village. He greatly valued education as a way to expand his horizons.
Jim received his bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering at Universiteti Politeknik in Tirana, Albania, prior to making a new home for himself and his family in Houston, Texas. Jim held a Master’s and Doctorate in Mechanical Engineering from Lamar University with published research in Nanotechnology, and considered himself a lifelong learner. He served as the Vice President of Engineering at Dril-Quip, and Senior Technical Advisor in Regulatory Affairs at Chevron until his passing. Jim served on the executive boards of ASME, OTC, and API as well as a chair and member of OOC and AWHEM, and was well lauded by others in his field. He also served as President of Arbëria Houston and was dedicated to and admired by the Albanian community in the greater Houston area.
Jim greatly emphasized the importance of family in his life, and valued the strong connections he made with his wife, children, siblings, and extended family. As a proud Texan throughout his adulthood, he always kept his Albanian heritage and traditions at the forefront. He enjoyed dancing Valle, nature, and traveling, and he was seen by many as the life of the party.
Jim will be remembered fondly by family, friends, coworkers, committee members, and community members alike.
