James L “Jim” Cwik, beloved husband of Cheryl Barko, passed away on April 14, 2022 at the age of 78 in Palos Heights, IL. Born in 1943 and raised in Chicago, Jim’s offbeat sense of humor and extensive collection of hats were just two of many telltale qualities for which he will be remembered. An avid photographer, movie buff and ghost town enthusiast, Jim’s unconventional wit and gift for calling attention to life’s minor inconveniences, no matter how small or mundane, made him endlessly entertaining to his family, friends and colleagues. A former member of the Cavaliers Drum and Bugle Corps, Jim’s precision on the snare drum was everlasting and he remained an ardent fan of the group throughout his life. His taste in entertainment ranged far and wide, from silver screen legends Laurel and Hardy to the steely grit of Clint Eastwood, the dry sarcasm of late night legend David Letterman, and willful neuroticism of Larry David. A lover of margaritas and the occasional apple martini, Jim was as at home vacationing in the resorts of Cancun with loving wife Cheryl as he was roaming the California deserts with his telltale Nikon dangling from his neck. In his later years he remained as practical as he was joyful, never missing an opportunity to regale his children and stepchildren with a tongue-in-cheek lecture on the benefits of stable employment, health insurance and 401ks, and owning a safe and reliable vehicle. In retirement, Jim savored the time he spent with family and friends, his trips to Utah and the West Coast, and babysitting for those closest to him–an endeavor that gave him a welcome excuse to indulge his playful side to the nth degree.

In addition to his wife, Jim is survived by children David (Ruthie) Cwik, Steve (Elizabeth) Cwik, Jennifer Cwik; stepchildren Charlie (Callie) Barko and Katie (late Bart) Barko; loving Grandpa Jim to Camden and Brooks; and Dear Brother Mark (Toni) Cwik. He will be missed by his grand dogs Emma, Snoop, Bowie, and Quincy.

There will be a visitation Wednesday, April 20, 2022 from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Colonial Chapel 15525 S. 73rd Avenue (155th/Wheeler Dr. & Harlem) Orland Park, IL 60642. Family and friends are invited to meet directly at St. Michael Church, 14327 Highland Ave, Orland Park, IL 60462 for a Funeral Mass Thursday, April 21, 2022 at 11:00 a.m.

Below is a photo tribute celebrating Jim's life.



At the request of the family, in lieu of flowers, please send donations to Prostate Cancer Research Institute pcri.org or the Sierra Club Foundation sierraclubfoundation.org.