James Michael Campise

James Michael Campise, known to many as Jim, passed away peacefully on June 14, 2026, in St. Louis, Missouri, surrounded by his loving family. Born on May 21, 1954, in St. Louis, Jim lived a life marked by dedication to his profession, his family, and his community.

Jim was a respected fellow brother of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local 6. Over a career spanning more than 30 years, he worked as a stagehand at notable venues around town, such as the MUNY, Fox Theater, and the Kiel Opera House. His commitment and expertise led him to be in charge of stage electrical and rigging operations at the Enterprise Center, a role in which he demonstrated dependability and leadership. Among his peers in the stagehand community, he was affectionately known as "the Godfather" in recognition of his experience and mentorship.

In addition to his professional life, Jim was a proud veteran, having honorably served in the United States Marine Corps. His personal interests were varied and reflected his spirited and loving nature. He enjoyed playing baseball with his grandson Grayson, rooting for the New York Yankees and the Cardinals, riding motorcycles, and was fond of his Harley-Davidson. Jim loved reading to his children, cooking—highlighted by his famous chicken spiedini—and engaging in games such as cards, ping pong, and foosball with friends and family.

Family was the cornerstone of Jim’s life. He shared nearly 46 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Debbie Campise. Together, they nurtured a close-knit family that included their daughter, Megan Dethloff, and grandsons Grayson and Brady Dethloff. Jim was known for his fun-loving, dependable demeanor (as long as you didn't make a mess) and was devoted to his family. He delighted in simple joys such as watering Debbie’s flowers, eating popsicles with his grandson Grayson, playing ping pong with his son-in-law on vacations, overfeeding the fish in the pond, and participating in organized baseball with the men’s club at OLGC.

Jim is survived by his wife Debbie; daughter Megan Dethloff; grandsons Grayson and Brady Dethloff; his brothers Anthony (Danny) Campise, Pat (Dorothy) Campise, Joe Campise, and John (Tammy) Campise; his sister Cathy (Paul) Bernhardt; as well as sisters-in-law Kelly Hurley, Maureen Campise, Anne Kretzler, and many nieces, nephews, and extended family members. He was preceded in death by his son Jimmy Campise, his parents Tony and LaVerne Campise, brother Chris Campise, son-in-law Marc Dethloff, and brother-in-law Michael Hurley.

The family extends sincere gratitude to the staff at Autumn View Gardens and Accent Care Hospice for their compassionate and attentive care during Jim’s final days.

A visitation will be held on July 6, 2026, from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Newcomer Funeral Home in St. Peters, Missouri. A memorial service will follow from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the same location. The day will conclude with a graveside service at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Cemetery in St. Charles, Missouri, beginning at 3:00 p.m.

Jim Campise’s life was defined by his steadfast work ethic, his unwavering love for his family, and his infectious spirit. He leaves behind a legacy of dedication both on stage and in life, remembered fondly by all who knew him.