James Joseph Knesek, Sr.

May 21, 1954 - February 8, 2014

James Joseph Knesek, 59, a lifelong resident of Munster, IN. passed away suddenly on Saturday, February 8, 2014. Jim was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Joseph and Josephine Knesek; father and mother-in-law, Dean and Mary Langel. He is survived by his loving wife of 29 years, Julie (nee Langel); proud and loving father of James Joseph Knesek, Jr.; cherished brother of Donna (Nick) Krizmanic, Gerald (Andrea) Knesek, Karen (Ron) Smith and Mark (Christine) Knesek; caring brother-in-law of Sandra (Dale) Carlson and Jeanne (Don) Nadzieja; devoted uncle to numerous nieces and nephews. Many fond cousins and many many dear friends; faithful companions, Aimee and Sadie. Visitation will be on Wednesday, February 12, 2014 from 2:00-8:00 PM at Kish Funeral Home, 10000 Calumet Ave. Munster, IN. Funeral service will be on Thursday at 9:45 AM at the funeral home with a 10:30 Mass of Christian Burial at St. Thomas More Church. Interment will be at Calumet Park Cemetery, Merrillville, IN. Jim served with the US Army and was a graduate of Lewis University with a Degree in Fire Science and Public Administration. He was a basketball referee with the IHSAA and coached C.Y.O. basketball. He was a member of I.V.F.A. who will hold services at 8:00 PM on Wednesday, Lake County Fire Chief Association and MABAS 24. Jim was the Munster Fire Chief since 2005 and the Director Operations for the Munster Public Works since 1995. Jim lived his dream in the town he loved and grew up in.

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So sorry for your loss, and his untimely passing. Fond childhood neighbor friends.

So sad to hear of Jim's passing.We grew up together on Calumet Ave.& both went to St Thomas More. I remember those times fondly. Jim was my first best friend.My Condolences to His Family & Friends.

Our sincere condolences to your family and to Karen Smith and Ron.

Julie and Jimmy--please accept our most heartfelt and deepest sympathies for your loss. Jim was the model of good man--a man devoted to his family and a man dedicated to his community.

My deepest sympathies to Jim's family and friends. May he rest eternally in peace, and may your grief pass gently.

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

I am truly so sad to hear of your loss. Although I didn't serve on the department while he was Chief, I was there just prior. He was an amazingly stand up guy who you knew you could depend on any time. I can't imagine what you are going through, but please know our thoughts and prayers are with all of you!Julie (Johnson) BolandFormer Town of Munster Parks Dept. And Fire Dept.

Sorry for your loss.

Julie and Jimmy,We have been your neighbors for what seems a lifetime. Jim always reached out to help us at a moments notice.He has taken care of our mail, fed and walked our dog while we was out of town. He was such a caring husband, father, and neighbor.He will be sadly missed. Our prayers are for both of you to find peace through this great loss to all of us.Don and Jean Williams

Julie and Jimmy, We are so sorry for your loss. Jim was a great guy, but you know that. My thoughts are with you during this difficult time. Love, Marcy, Todd, Otto, and Addison Siegmund

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.