James J. Kampa

INDEPENDENCE – James J. Kampa, 65, of Independence, died Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at his home. He lost his battle with renal cell carcinoma after six years. He was born September 25, 1944, in Whitehall, to Roman and Euphrosine (Pyka) Kampa. He married Janet N. Olson on June 29, 1963 at SS. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, Independence. Jim was a maintenance supervisor at Ashley Furniture for many years. He enjoyed hunting and fishing. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He had wisdom and knowledge which helped many people. He treasured his special dog, Bandit. James is survived by his wife, Janet of Independence; his four children, Craig of Minneapolis, Kevin (special friend Louise Nelson) of Independence, Susan (Brad) Gamroth of Whitehall, Deborah (Brian) Blaschko of Arcadia; three sisters, Patricia (Jim) Vosburg of Woodbury, Minn., Janice (John) Thoma, Carol (Charles) Finstad, both of Whitehall; five grandchildren, Payton, Mackenzie, Easton, Dalton, and Elaina. James is preceded in death by his parents. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, February 27, 2010 at SS. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, Independence, with Rev. David C. Kunz officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be from 4-8 p.m. Friday and 8-10 a.m. Saturday at Edison Funeral Home, Independence, where there will be a prayer service at 7:30 p.m. Friday, followed by a rosary. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of James J. Kampa, please visit our flower store.