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BORN
1946
DIED
2025
James O'Malley Obituary
James Edward O'Malley, 79, of Chicago, Illinois, and a longtime resident of Orland Park, passed away on November 19, 2025, surrounded by his family.
Born on May 4, 1946, in Chicago, Illinois, James was proud of his Irish heritage and carried its traditions, values, and humor throughout his life. He grew up with a strong sense of justice and perseverance, qualities that would guide him in service and in life.
With a profound sense of duty, James proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. His exceptional bravery was recognized with the awarding of the Purple Heart, a distinction he accepted with deep respect for his fellow service members.
Following his military service, James established a successful and respected career in sales and marketing. Known for his disciplined work ethic and dedicated leadership, he earned the admiration and trust of colleagues, clients, and business partners alike.
In his personal life, James found great joy in the simple pleasures of reading, hiking, and golfing. His unique style and remarkable knack for adopting the latest innovations made him unforgettable.
He always looked forward to autumn weekends so he could cheer for the Fighting Irish of Notre Dame and Chicago Bears with enthusiasm, season after season. He also shared a close bond with his Golden Retriever, Mick, whose companionship enriched his days and walks.
James was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Diane Goodman O'Malley, with whom he shared fourteen years of marriage; his parents Katherine O'Malley and James O'Malley; his brother Patrick O'Malley; and nephew Benny Mall.
He is survived by his daughter, Katie O'Malley; his three stepchildren, Kerri Heim Scianna (Dominic), Terri Heim McNamara (PJ), and Dan Heim (Jaclyn); as well as his grandchildren Peter Scianna (Liewelee), Jacob McNamara (Amanda), Anthony Scianna (Milena), Collin McNamara (Lauren), Avery Heim, and Emerson Heim, who brought him tremendous pride.
He will be remembered with deep affection by his sister Margaret (Peggy) Mall (Ben), nieces and nephews John Mall (Staci), Mary Wood (Chris), Kelly Sailer
(Louis), Anne Mall, and lifetime best friend Greg Jiede (Dana).
Those who know James will remember him for his strength, storytelling, and unwavering sense of responsibility. His legacy of honor and generosity endures in the many lives he has touched.
A Celebration of Life will be held in May 2026, with military honors, to coincide with his 80th Birthday. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago in his memory.
To stay informed about the celebration of life, complete this form: https://bit.ly/celebratejames
Sign Guest Book at legacy.suntimes.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James O'Malley
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5 Entries
Carol O'Toole
November 27, 2025
I would like to say that Jim left an indelible impression on me from the first moment I met him in 1966. He had a charisma and charm that made you feel special. My husband Jack is his cousin and they grew up together in Chicago. They both went to Xavier University in Cincinnati, which is how I met him. They were in the same dorm and shared a car, so we double-dated often. He was smart, handsome, and fun to be with. He was an important part of my college years and I will cherish those memories.
Later, we got to meet his beautiful wife, Diane and their little one, Katie, on a visit to their home. They made Jim very happy and content. God bless you, Katie and give you His peace.
David Marsh
November 23, 2025
Jim was absolutely the best boss I had at Steelcase . He was always available for a chat when I was struggling with an issue at work . Jim was always there . No matter what & when . I deeply respected him as an individual. He always did the right thing . His love for family & friends was heart warming. As well as his Irish heritage . I learned a lot from Jim . He was more than a boss . I felt he was a friend . RIP my friend. I will miss you .
Ryan Grote
November 23, 2025
I met Jim in early January 1993, interviewing for a college entry position as part of the Steelcase sales force in Chicago. His stature, his piercing blue eyes, and Irish wit were formidable in our multi-hour interview. The climax of the interview was to sell him a porcelain pear that was part of the centerpiece at the table we were sitting. I mush have fooled him enough for him and the Chicago managers offer me the role. We had a sales reorganization, which took him to St. Louis. A few years later, Jim returned to Chicago to recruit me to venture to Memphis, TN for a rare work assignment, as part of his team. I jumped at the chance, and as a young man, he would invite me to stay at his house during sales meetings and work trip. Those evenings, talking about everything from the merits of professional wrestling to the wisdom of carrying water for your troops in a desert, he taught me so much about strategy, working the plan, and ensuring the right people get the right recognition. We lost touch after he left Steelcase, and the last time I saw him was literally walking into him at Oakbrook Mall, where he got to meet my wife and young family. I never saw him after that, but always thought about him and would bring him up to all who remembered him. Rest in peace and God Bless Jim.
Joan Fisher
November 23, 2025
So sorry to learn of Jim´s passing. I enjoyed working with him for many years at Steelcase.
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