Obituary of Larry T Kamick

LARRY T. (“Ganga”) KAMICK Larry died peacefully on June 25, 2021, surrounded by his closest family. Loved forever by Melinda, his wife of 51 years, sons Kendall (Randy) and Jason (Traci), grandchildren Parker Lawrence and Kylie Adele (lovingly known as ”Ganga” to them), and brothers Ron (Jim) Kamick and the late Bob (survived by Lottie) Kmiecik. Raised in Chicago, he graduated from DePaul Academy and then joined the US Army, to be stationed as a Specialist in Augsburg, Germany. He later began a 39-year career in electrical engineering at Commonwealth Edison. He was a Fourth Degree member of the Knights of Columbus and a 36-year member of the American Legion. With a lifelong love of music, he was a well-known organist and vocalist. He and his wife made a career of singing Masses, weddings, and funerals in local churches. For the last 19 years, he enjoyed harmonizing to barbershop music with the Chicago Metro Chorus. Larry loved theatre, movies and 80s rock concerts. He believed in “any excuse for a party” and backyard grilling. He took pride in his outdoor Christmas display and loved celebrating holidays. Larry looked forward to watching the Chicago Blackhawks, Bears, and Cubs with family. He was an awesome bowler. A natural athlete, but a reluctant skier who braved the black diamond expert slopes, and golfer who kept up with the more skilled players. He enjoyed winning at cards with friends (and loved their company, even if he lost, not that he’d ever admit it).Larry taught his sons the value of hard work and the importance of saving for a rainy day. He was a role-model who was patient when teaching, understanding when mistakes were made, and always found the silver lining in any situation. He never minded when Kendall resorted to calling him “Larry” because yelling “Dad” wasn’t getting his attention. He made sure that his sons could tackle most home or car repair projects, often commenting “if someone else can do it, so can you.” Larry was unafraid to embark on new adventures and shared that thrill of adventure with his family. Though there were many highlights, some of his favorite memories included: road-trips to learn US history when his sons were young, exploring castles in Ireland, frolicking with his grandchildren on a Disney cruise, and relaxing with Melinda in Athens at the Plaka. Larry loved kids and animals. Before their own children were born, they would take nieces and nephews to fun places. His kids were always encouraged to bring friends along wherever they went. Larry always had poodles and cherished a houseful of all kinds of animals, even snakes. He helped rescue and prepare strays for successful new homes. His family and friends were the most treasured part of his life and he never missed a chance to spend time with his grandkids. Parker and Kylie, remember that your “Ganga” loved you so very much and always enjoyed spoiling you with special treats and surprises. Larry left beautiful memories of his love, kindness and humor... never to be forgotten. We love you, Larry-Dad/Ganga! Visitation Friday, July 2 from 3pm to 8pm at Kolssak Funeral Home, 189 S. Milwaukee Ave., Wheeling (2 blocks south of Dundee). To leave a condolence or for more information visit www.funerals.pro (see Current Life Celebrations page) or call 847-537-6600. Mass of the Resurrection celebration Saturday, July 3 at 11am at St. Norbert Catholic Church, 1809 Walters Ave., Northbrook. Entombment service to follow at All Saints Cemetery mausoleum, 700 N. River Rd., Des Plaines. Larry’s favorite animal organization is The Anti-Cruelty Society, as they have helped tremendously over the years as he and Melinda rescued stray animals. Contact https://anticruelty.org/donate or call 312-644-8338.