James Lacey Cambier

Jim was a brilliant biomedical engineer who was born with a natural curiosity and a deep reverence for the world around him. Jim graduated from the University of Missouri at Rolla with a B.S. in electrical engineering in 1971. He went on to earn an M.S. and Ph.D. in electrical engineering from the University of Rochester in 1977.

Jim was recognized as a pioneer and leader in the field of iris biometric identification. His innovative research led to numerous patents and scholarly publications. In 2002, he was featured as a consultant in the National Geographic Documentary “Search For the Afghan Girl.” He went on to lend his expertise to various technology startups in human and animal iris biometrics, yet he remained, always, a man of great humility more inclined to speak about the achievements of others than tout his own.

Outside of his work, Jim found peace and joy on the water. As a skilled sailor, he spent many weekends “Zooming” along Oneida Lake and Lake Erie. He enjoyed fly fishing from a young age, and he cherished the time spent with his brothers on fishing trips to the American West. Music was another constant in his life. His guitar picking brought joy to campfires, church events, and family gatherings. He also loved to sing. In his later years, he passed this love of music on to his grandchildren.

Those who loved Jim will remember not only his intellect but his unwavering kindness, humility, and thoughtfulness. He lived without pretense, guided by integrity, wonder, and love. Despite enduring many health-related challenges over his life, he did not complain but carried on with grit and determination.

A man of quiet faith, Jim was an active member of the Catholic Church. He served as the music director at both St. Mary of the Lakes in Medford, NJ and St. Mary’s in Rome, NY. Most recently, he was actively engaged in the musical ministry of St. Peter’s Church in Jupiter, FL.

He is survived by his wife Kathy, his sisters Nora Cambier-Unruh (Michael) and Antonica Cambier; his brother Peter (Cindy); his twin brother John (Sara); his son Thomas (Janel Benson) daughter Elizabeth (Jenney Grant) and stepson Jeffrey Polniaszek (Holly Small), eight grandchildren, countless friends, colleagues, and all who had the privilege of learning from and walking beside him.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, May 16th at 10 a.m. at St. Peter’s Catholic Church 1701 Indian Creek Pkwy., Jupiter, FL 33458. Donations can be made to St. Vincent De Paul of Jupiter, FL.