John "Jack" Van Camp

John "Jack" Van Camp, age 90, passed away peacefully on June 9th, 2025, in Woodstock, Illinois.

Born on June 19, 1934, in Akron, Ohio, Jack was the son of Paul and Doris (Evans) Van Camp. From an early age, he demonstrated a keen intellect that would shape the course of his life. He pursued higher education with distinction—first earning his undergraduate degree from Northwestern University before going on to receive an MBA from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. These academic achievements laid the groundwork for a long and respected career in accounting.

Jack began his professional career as a certified public accountant with Touche, Ross, Bailey and Smart in Chicago. As the firm evolved over time, including its eventual merger into Deloitte & Touche, until becoming just Deloitte, Jack remained a steadfast presence. He remained with the company, ultimately working in the area of mergers and acquisitions. Jack retired as a partner with Deloitte in 1998. His career reflected not only his expertise in finance but also his steadfast commitment to excellence and integrity in all that he did.

Jack was an avid reader of science fiction and detective novels. One of his greatest joys was collecting Wizard of Oz memorabilia, books and artwork. His passion for L. Frank Baum’s timeless world led him to become a long-time member of the International Wizard of Oz Club, where he found community among fellow enthusiasts and collectors. Jack served the Club for many years as treasurer where his professional knowledge as an advanced CPA was valuable as the Club expanded and evolved. Jack was proud of his work in obtaining the IRS 501(c)(3) designation for the Oz Club. Jack was presented with the L. Frank Baum Memorial Award in 1981 in recognition for his many years of service to the Club. Jack’s real reward from the Club, though, were the lasting friendships, flea market runs with Oz friends and the joy of sharing his love of collecting Oz. While work and the Oz Club gave Jack much enjoyment, it was his role as a father that brought him the greatest fulfillment.

Raising his children as a single parent for many years, he provided unwavering support to his daughters Jacqueline (Einoris) and Suzanne (Call) and to his son John William. His deep love extended across generations to include his grandchildren—Rebecca Einoris, Jennifer Einoris, Emily Call, and Benjamin Call—and to his great-granddaughter Maia SaundersCall.

May Jack’s memory bring comfort to those who knew him and continue to inspire all.