Add a Memory
Make a Donation
James Tyree Obituary
Tyree died at a Chicago hospital following "an unexpected complication" from stomach cancer, according to Richard Price, president and chief operating officer of Chicago-based Mesirow Financial, a financial services company where Tyree was CEO, chairman and worked for more than three decades.
"Jim was truly one-of-a-kind; an amazing leader and great friend to so many," Price said in a statement. "He made an indelible impression on each one of us at Mesirow Financial, and our hearts are broken."
Tyree announced in October that he had stomach cancer and would undergo chemotherapy. Tyree also suffered from diabetes and had kidney and pancreas transplants in 2006.
In 2009, Tyree led an investment group that took the Chicago Sun-Times' parent company out of bankruptcy. Sun-Tim es Media, which also owns dozens of suburban Chicago newspapers and websites, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in March of that year, following months of cost-cutting measures.
The company's troubles played during the 2007 federal trial of Lord Conrad Black, the CEO of the Sun-Times' former owner, Hollinger International. Black was convicted of siphoning millions of dollars from Hollinger.
The media company was sold to the investors led by Tyree for about $26.5 million.
"I certainly believe this is a good business opportunity, though certainly very risky," Tyree told The Associated Press in a 2009 interview.
Among other concessions, Tyree asked unions to agree to lock in 15 percent pay cuts that were originally intended to be temporary.
"It was his vision and effort that brought our company out of bankruptcy and gave us all the bright future that we have today," Sun-Times Media CEO Jeremy Halbreich said in a memo to employees. "We will miss Jim's counsel and leadership."
Tyree, who grew up on Chicago's South Side, took classes at City Colleges of Chicago while in high school before earning a bachelor's degree at Illinois State University in three years. He also earned a master's from the school. He worked as a forklift operator and used academic scholarships and grants to pay for his education.
Tyree joined Mesirow Financial in 1980, beginning as a research assistant and working his way up. He was named president in 1990 and chief executive in 1992.
Chicago Mayor Richard Daley appointed Tyree City College of Chicago chairman in 2000, a post he held for 10 years.
"As chairman of the board and former student of the Chicago City Colleges, he was a mentor to the students and a strong example of what can happen through hard work and perseverance," Daley said in a statement.
Tyree is survived by his wife and three children. No funeral plans have been announced.
Copyright © 2011 The Associated Press
62 Entries
August 24, 2011
Mr. Tyree,
"You're a shining star, no matter who you are Shining bright to see what you can truly be That you can truly be" - you're missed everyday - thank you so much - God Bless your family.
etr
August 8, 2011
miketyree
Heather Polly-Johnson
May 18, 2011
I was inspired by Mr. Tyree's dedication to Mesirow and to JDRF. He was an intelligent, strong, business leader and generous spirit. My prayers for him and for his family.
Alexis Žemaitis
March 23, 2011
I would like to extend my sincerest ondolences to the family of Jim Tyree. Though my tenure at Mesirow was rather short, I remember well his kind demeanour and the candid conversations we had whenever he would visit our area. He will truly be missed.
How you can show support
March 23, 2011
My deepest sympathy to Jim's family. At JDRF he was so dedicated to our mission to research and finding a cure for type 1 diabetes and its complications. He was a great man, a tremendous leader. It's been a priviledge and honor to have worked with him!
Janet Clark
March 23, 2011
Love and prayers.
March 22, 2011
Sincere condolences to the family of James C. Tyree. I knew Jim years ago when we were children. He was known as Craig to us. Being only a bit older than him, we lost any contact after he and his mother moved. The connection was made entirely by recognition. Looking at his picture, I see not only his father, but also our Poppy, his grandfather. May you be Blessed at this very difficult time.
A long lost cousin.
Joan Egan, Palos Hills, Illinois
Susan Falsone
March 22, 2011
Eve and Family,
Though I never met Jim, I know he was a great man. Eve, please be strong and know Jim is with the angels and will always watch over you.
God Bless you and your children.
Susan (Jeanne's sister)
Brian Callahan
March 22, 2011
I grew up with Jim in St.Barnabas. We did not hang out because I was a year older but my brother and his friends new him well. Suffice it to say we all followed his career and accomplishments. Always considered a nieghborhood guy...a great compliment to anyone who achieved what he did. I remember him as a smart guy who had a plan....not many of us did...Barnabas Buckeye forever....
Melvin & Dee Woods
March 22, 2011
Please accept our prayers and condolences to the family of James Tyree
Paul Blackman
March 21, 2011
Condolences to the family of Jim Tyree. Although I only worked with Jim for two years at Mesirow I found him to be one of the greatest leaders that I ever had the privilege to work with. My wife Sherry and I were privileged to be at your wedding and for years after every time I heard the name JIM TYREE it put a big smile on my face. He was a Man among Men and he will always be remembered with great fondness and respect.
Tamikia Manson
March 21, 2011
Jim Tyree was a Great Man, and it has been a pleasure to have known him and my prayers is with his family.
Lynda Robbins
March 21, 2011
On behalf of the Michael Rolfe Pancreatic Cancer Foundation's Board of Directors and Staff, may we express our sincere condolences on your loss. Mr. Tyree was always so supportive of our Foundation's mission and he will be greatly missed.
Elzbieta Galon-Szymczak
March 21, 2011
Glebokie wyrazy wspólczucia i zalu. To bardzo niesprawiedliwe. Ewa, niech Bóg czuwa nad Toba i dziecmi.
Carrie Thomas
March 21, 2011
Dear Mrs. Tyree & Family:
Please accept my heartfelt sympathy for the loss of your husband and friend. My prayers are with you and your children during this difficult time. His spirit will live in our hearts forever!
Cathie Duff
March 21, 2011
I met Jim only once and he wouldn't remember me, but I never forgot him. He changed the way I act as a business owner. I know that his family, associates and the city of Chicago have lost a huge heart and talent. It is true that we live on in the lives we have touched and his spirit will be around for a long, long time. My sincere condolences to his family and loved ones.
Jim McKenzie
March 21, 2011
My prayers go out to Jim's family, friends and colleagues. I became reacquainted with Jim through his generous involvement with the Kevin Shannon Foundation, commemorating a childhood friend. I was lucky to know a man who remained genuine & truly compassionate despite achieving incredible worldly success. Jim lived his life in a way that will remain an inspiration to all whose lives he touched. Rest in peace.
Tracie Ellis
March 21, 2011
My prayers and thoughts are with the family during this difficult time.
Mr. Tyree was a wonderful person and I feel so blessed for having known him and for being part of the Mesirow family.
Thanks for the memories.
Regina Hawkins
March 21, 2011
Dear Eve and family,
Jim was the best boss I ever had. I am so sorry for your loss. I worked under his chairmanshop for ten years and he always had a kind word. He truly cared about education and was a champion in all his battles. He cared about people and always found time to chat with anyone who stopped him. What a blessing to have been married to such an outstanding individual and I know his spirit will always be with you and the children. God Bless You
Ed Molitor
March 21, 2011
To the Tyree Family,
I am deeply saddened to hear of your loss. I had the privilege of coaching Jim at Marist High School. He was an outstanding competitor and as fine a person as any coach would want to have in their program. He set the bar for how student athletes should live and contribute to their community. I will always remember him as a loyal, dedicated, and committed person. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
March 20, 2011
Eve and Family-
Cari and I can not adequately express our deepest sympathy for the loss you have experienced with Jim and now your Dad. We can not add anything more then has already been added here about Jim and his effect on those outside of your family. Cari and I only know he will be deeply missed.
Cari O'Connor and Kevin Nedved
SANDY ARMSTRONG
March 20, 2011
Eve, I am truly sorry to hear of this hour of sadness for you and your family. Jim was a wonderful person and an inspiration to all. Each battle he engaged in he had the fight for victory within his sight and reach. I know him as the person who would step over the hurdle and move forward on the playing field. he did this in his illness' and in his work attitude. He was always a friend, a supporter, a good person who was BLESSED and he will be missed by all. SANDY ARMSTRONG (FORMER EMPLOYEE MATTESON ILLINOIS)
Nicolette Mayo
March 20, 2011
My deepest condolences to Mr. Tyree's family. Anyone that spent any amount of time with him, knew he a huge family man. He showed us all how to live life fully through success and adversity. He will be missed by many. A Great man with a Big heart and a Bigger Laugh.
Jerzy Karczewski
March 20, 2011
NAJSERDECZNIEJSZE WYRAZY WSPÓLCZUCIA DLA CALEJ RODZINY SKLADAJA
MARIA, KRZYSZTOF I JERZY KARCZEWSCY.
EWUNIU, LACZYMY SIE Z TOBA W BÓLU.
Rob Mandik
March 20, 2011
Mr. Tyree will be truely missed in so many ways. His presence and hard work inspiring life back into the Sun-Times will always be remembered. He was a true Gentleman!
Ron & Nancy Swieca
March 20, 2011
Eve, Our heart goes out to you and your family on the tragic deaths of your husband Jim and then your father Joseph. May you find some peace in the coming days. Ron & Nancy
Ron & Nancy Swieca
March 20, 2011
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Jim was a great friend and always so happy. I know he will will be truly missed.
ROBERT WYNN
March 19, 2011
Good bye Mr Tyree YOU SAVED THE BEST NEWSPAPER IN TOWN GOD BLESS YOU FOR ALL YOUR HARD WORK
Jessie Padron
March 19, 2011
My prayer to the family of Mr. Jim Tyree.
He love White Castle. I use to drive Mr Tyree once in a while.
He would always like to stop at White Castle. He always told me if my wife ask you. Don't let her know I ate White castles..
He was a Big Sox fan. And I'm a Cubs fan....
The City will Miss Him and all the work he did.
KEN&MARY O'DANIEL
March 19, 2011
WE ARE SENDING OUR LOVE,PRAYERS,&CONDOLENCES TO THE TYREE FAMILY,FRIENDS,&ALL WHO KNEW MR. TYREE.
Sarafina Norman
March 19, 2011
Mr. Tyree was the perfect model of generosity, leadership, and humility. As a parent of a long time Happiness Club member - an organization he supported - I am grateful that I had the opportunity to personally thank him. My prayers are with his family. Chicago and the rest of the world shares your grief. God bless you.
Richard Trenkmann
March 19, 2011
My deepest condolences to the family of Jim Tyree. I knew him as an excellent business leader and civic supporter.
Kathleen Mcinyre
March 19, 2011
Eve,You and your family are in my prayers.Jim was a very special man who had great hopes for the future. He will be united with you and the children from Heaven.
Zarko Njakara
March 18, 2011
We lost a great man who brought intelligence, determination and certainty wherever he went and made people feel right under his leadership.
Claudine Jones
March 18, 2011
I would like to express my deep and heartfelt sympathy. Jim Tyree was a good and kindhearted man and will truly be missed. You're in my thoughts and prayers.
Phyllis Swonk
March 18, 2011
Jim was a fine, caring and genuine person whose passion, hard work and community involvement were an integral part of his personality. My thoughts are with friends, family and colleagues who have been inspired and have flourished through his touching their lives. His legacy is enormous, his vision farsighted, the loss enormous.
March 18, 2011
To the family of James C. Tyree, you have my deepest sympathy for the loss of your beloved one. Our heavenly Father is with you, and he will revive your spirit and crush heart-Isaiah 57:15. (Erma L. Davis, Park Forest, IL.)
Brien Oakley
March 18, 2011
The world has lost a great & wonderful man. My condolenses to the Tyree family. Jim, you fought the good fight; I'll see you on the other side. Brien T. Oakley, Chicago (Beverly), IL
Lee Gordon
March 18, 2011
Eve:
I will forever remember Jim as a friend that always had an interest in my family and our business. With his feet up and a smile on his face we would talk Bulls, Bears and baseball.
We have the road paved to continue on his path.
With Love
Dana and Lee Gordon
Highland Park, IL
Patricia Barrett
March 18, 2011
My heart goes out to Jim's family. He was a lovely man with a generous spirit. I am sure his Mesirow family will also be missing him for a long time. May the Lord hold you all in the palm of His hand.
Patricia Barrett, Clifton,Virginia
alvin robinson
March 18, 2011
Chicago has loss a great man and a a great citizen of the world.
The Tom Walsh Family
March 18, 2011
Sorry for your loss. Thank you so much all the help with JDRF Illinois. Jim's efforts will not be forgotten.
Angel Scudieri
March 18, 2011
Condolenes to the family,Jim will forever be remembered. May you find peace and comfort within the Lord.
peter mccarthy
March 18, 2011
Sorry about the loss of Jim. We always had fun and laughs at the Bergoff at our annual Christmas gathering. Jim always had a smile and a kind word to all around him. I hope your family is at ease and I will miss him . Peter McCarthy, Kingfisher Restaurant
Bill Becker
March 18, 2011
Jim was my personal hero. I last saw him after my discharge from U of C hospital almost a year ago. We spoke of my fight against cancer, my near-death experience with pneumonia, and his similar fight against diabetes. He was, as always, a down-to-earth, open-hearted gentleman. A great listener. A wonderful conversationalist. A giant of a man whose ego was well in check. Little did we know that he would be fighting cancer himself within a few months and that he would fall prey to the same illness that almost took my life. I will miss him. My condolences to his family, friends and his co-workers at Mesirow Financial.
Steve Legatzke
March 18, 2011
Jim was a wonderful person, always full of life and vigor and compassion for his family, co-workers, and the community. He will be truly missed. My condolences to Eve and all his family.
March 18, 2011
Tyree Family- Jim will be missed by everyone that knew him. Im honored to call him a friend.
Ed Werner
Eileen Clark
March 17, 2011
He was a wonderful man who made a huge impact on this city. He was one of the greats. I will miss him dearly.
Mary Lou Obos
March 17, 2011
I was so so saddened to hear of Jim's passing. My sincere condolences to Eve, the children and all of my friends/prior co-workers at Mesirow. Though I retired in 2004 (having been acquired by Mesirow in 1991), I clearly recall him as our tireless leader, our captain at the helm, our boss, but yet so accessible, friendly, available, always visible. His upbeat plans and visions at our "State of the Union" annual meetings kept us on target. His presence at the annual Holiday Underwriters' parties and his casual friendly walks thru the employees offices were so warmly accepted. He was a gentleman and inspiration, never to be forgotten.
March 17, 2011
An American legend. I wish there were more like this man.
Garrity clan
March 17, 2011
Jim was a great guy. A great buddy who was a self-made man and not a person who looked for entitlements. He got off his butt and worked hard for everything he got. An American hero. Jimmy will be missed.
CST Family
March 17, 2011
Mr. Tyree
Each and every one of us at the Chicago Sun-Times is indebted to you for your vision.
Rest In Peace Sir
Roy Terracina
March 17, 2011
To the Tyree Family, I am saddened by the loss of one of the true leaders of the business world, but more importantly a man who did what he said he was going to do. Always putting himself in the shoes of the "underdog", Jim always thought of others first....from Mesirow, to JDRF, to the many causes he "championed" he was one of a kind....I will miss you dear friend.
C C
March 17, 2011
I remember him as a down to earth person who used to roam the halls of Mesirow speaking to everyone and he always treated everyone with kindness. He was a great man
R Golay
March 17, 2011
To the the family of James Tyree - May God give you peace and comfort through his word and the Lord Jesus Christ during this time of sorrow, I know that James will be missed by many.
John Jointer
March 17, 2011
In 2005-06, I had the distinct honor of serving as Student Trustee for the City Colleges of Chicago. Mr. Tyree was Chairman of City Colleges board at the time. He ALWAYS treated me with kindness & respect. He asked my opinion on issues that impacted the students. He let me know that my input was encouraged. He had a genuine care and concern for the welfare of all the students of City Colleges. I learned a great deal from him during that time, & for that I am eternally grateful for the chance to have known him. He will be missed. God Bless, Chairman Tyree
bernard williams
March 17, 2011
i knew jim while at the city colleges of chicago.he was a great guy.the sun times buy came out of a conversation we had about why the city colleges sports games were not being printed in the sun times like other schools.suggested that a group of local investors buy the sun times.jim did it.he was that kind of guy.he will be missed.he was a true visionary.my sympathy and condolences to his family.
bernard williams retired dir. public relations and marketing Malcolm x college 97-07.
March 17, 2011
Condolenes to the family of James Tyree: May God bless and keep you and give you comfort.
N.C.
G Willis
March 17, 2011
To the Tyree Family. May the God of comfort be with you durning this difficult time.
March 17, 2011
What a loss..to his family, friends & Chicago. He leaves behind some mighty shoes to fill
March 17, 2011
THE STUDENTS AND STAFF OF OUR LADY OF THE SNOWS SCHOOL ARE SAD WITH THE PASSING OF MR. TYREE. HE WAS A GENEROUS DONOR TO OUR SCHOOL. HE IS IN OUR PRAYERS AND WE KNOW HE IS IN HEAVEN.
March 17, 2011
Mrs. Tyree:
On behalf of the Board of Directors and all employees of Long Beach Country Club, please accept our condolences on your loss.
Please know you and your family are in all our prayers during this especially hard time.
Sincerely,
John Dillon
General Manager
Showing 1 - 62 of 62 results
Make a Donation
in James Tyree's name
How to support James's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor James Tyree's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read moreMore ways to support the family
Visit the Sympathy Shop
Sponsored