James Citta Obituary

James "Jim" Citta

Apr 19, 1945 - Oct 6, 2025

James "Jim" Citta, aged 80, of Cedar Lake, Indiana, passed away peacefully on October 6, 2025. He was born on April 19, 1945, in Maywood, California, the first son of Vincent James and Lillian Citta.

Jim graduated from Highland High School in 1963. In 1967, he was drafted by the United States Army, serving in Korea until he was honorably discharged in 1971.

In June 1972, Jim married the love of his life, Bobbie. Together, they purchased six and a half acres of land in Cedar Lake, Indiana-a decision many thought was a little crazy at the time. But Jim and Bobbie turned that land into a lifelong home, rebuilding the house from the ground up and creating a warm, welcoming space surrounded by nature.

Jim's creativity and hands-on spirit shone through everything he did.

From building a barn for chickens to crafting planters, compost boxes, bird feeders, and countless shelves, Jim's love for working with his hands was evident. He especially enjoyed feeding the birds, geese, and deer and found deep joy in the simple pleasures of "country living."

As the son of a prominent liquor store owner, Jim spent some of his early years working at the family business, Community Liquors, in Calumet City, Illinois, and then at J's Liquors in Highland, Indiana.

Eventually, Jim moved on and worked as a salesman for Olinger Distributors, where his larger-than-life personality and gift of conversation made him unforgettable. Known by many as "the wine guy,"

Jim's excellence in sales earned him special recognition in the distilled spirits industry. Each year, Canadian Club Scotch honored top performers at a prestigious black-tie event, where a select few received the coveted Canadian Club ring-a distinction Jim proudly achieved several years in a row.

Outside of work, Jim's adventurous spirit led him on a memorable "guys trip" to Alaska, a recent road trip on Route 66 to Texas, and countless fishing trips to Northern Wisconsin and Canada. These trips were among his happiest times, filled with laughter, friendship, and stories that would be told for years.

Jim is survived by his beloved daughter, Tracy (Will) Shearer; his brother, Jerry (Debbie) Citta; his cherished grandsons, Willy, and Max Shearer; and his lifelong friends, David (Jennifer) Austin and David (Jackie) Wickland. He is also lovingly remembered by many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, V. J. and Lillian Citta, and his devoted wife, Bobbie Citta.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., with a memorial service beginning at 2:30 p.m., at Burdan Funeral Home, 12901 Wicker Avenue, Cedar Lake, Indiana.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of the Calumet Area in memory of Jim. His playful spirit, quick wit, and generous heart will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved him.