James Delaney Obituary

7 years and it feels like yesterday. Miss you everyday and you would be so proud of Dominic, Michael and Vincent. Michael was at his retreat for St. Pat's high school and a story was written to him talking about a time all the kids were outside playing and he was inside with you talking for hours. He loved you so very much. I know your looking down on us and are proud at what you see!!

I met Mr. Delaney in high school while playing volleyball with Andrea. Since I was 14 at the time, I still think of him as 'Mr. Delaney'. He put in a LOT of miles shuttling us to and from practice and games. He always seemed very serious so my goal was to get him to crack a smile once in a while. Occasionally I'd succeed and he'd flash a quick grin and shake his head at me. On one occasion, after getting caught doing something we shouldn't have been doing, he just looked at us and said, "You're on the top of the mountain and everyone is going to try to knock you off. Don't give them that chance." That stuck with me and as I got older, made more and more sense. I learned a lot over the years from him and didn't appreciate it until much later in life. I'm so sorry to hear that he passed away as I hadn't seen him in years.

My thoughts and prayers are with Andrea, all his children and extended family & friends.

Jim, I hope your hitting that golf ball straight up in the clouds. You were a good guy better than I think you even know. I am thankful to have worked for you and also becoming a friend.

Your loved one will be remembered at the police Mass this Sunday (Easter), at 10:00 a.m., NOT 11:00 a.m. as mentioned in our previous post. Sorry for any confusion.

May all of the Delaney's find peace in their hearts for the loss of their brother, father ,grandpa. My memories go way back to some great times. Judi O'Brien

Thinking of you at this difficult time.

Thinking of you at this difficult time.

Heartfelt and prayerful condolences from the Chicago Police Chaplains. Jim will be remembered at our next Police Mass (Sunday, 08 APR, 11:00 a.m. at Mercy Home - 1140 W. Jackson Blvd). In the meantime, may family and friends know the healing touch of Jesus Christ! [Police Chaplains Ministry: www.chicagoPCM.org or 312/738-7588]

Jim, thank you for everything you did for me. It was very hard to watch you the last few months but I stood by your side until the very end as you did most of my life. Thank you for being the father figure in my life. You taught me a lot about life and I appreciated that. You were the only man that I looked up to and it was well deserving!! You were respected by everyone and we saw that every time we went somewhere. Even out of state we couldn't walk 5 feet without hearing Commander Commander being called out by someone. I enjoyed seeing it. One of the proudest days of my life is when you pulled me aside and told me how proud you were of me and what a great job Jennifer and I did raising Dominic, Michael and Vincent. Rest in peace now. No more pain!! I love you and you will forever have a special place in my heart!! Thank you for being my DAD.

Gregory S. Vayda

Jim; I miss you already. Thank you for being such a great Step-Dad. I know last few months were tough for you but you never gave up...even until the very end. You will be missed by all. I know your already looking down and watching over us and that's what makes the day brighter for me. I love you and miss you. Thanks for always being there for me!
Love,
Your Step-Daughter
Maureen Marie

In 1970 James B. Delaney was the Commander of the CPD detail for the Port of Chicago. and suddenly found himself with 16 precinct captains hired as Port Security Officers. I was one of them. He warned us that Police Officers stick to their own and might not be friendly. It took a while but but they eventually trusted us. The names of the ones who stuck up for us are too many to mention here, but one is prominent, James B. Delaney. A fairer man would be hard to find. I worked until the end of Navy Pier's use as a Port in 1978, and gained an insight into the life and code of conduct both written and passed along of a Chicago Police Officer. It was a unique experience, and I want the Delaney family to know that I have and will remember James forever.

Cheryl and Family,
Please know that the Lynch family extends our deepest sympathy. It was a privilege knowing Jim. One has to believe that he is finally at peace. You are an incredible family . We love you very much. Love, Jane and Family.