Former DCFS Director Calica passes away
Monday, Dec 23, 2013 - Posted by Rich Miller
* Sun-Times…
Richard H. Calica, who recently left his post as director of the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services, died overnight, Gov. Pat Quinn’s office said Monday morning.
Calica, 67, had been diagnosed with cancer and had undergone surgery in recent months. He had been DCFS director from December 2011 until last month, when he announced his diagnosis. […]
The governor touted Calica’s addition of 138 new investigators to the child-welfare system by eliminating management posts. He also credited him for modernizing the agency’s hotline system, “which has led to a 40 percent increase in the volume of callers who immediately reach a child-protection specialist.”
* Press release…
Governor Quinn today released the following statement on the passing of Richard Calica, former Director of the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) who led the department from December 2011 to November 2013.
“It is with great sadness today that we announce the passing of Richard Calica, a true public servant in the state of Illinois.
“Richard Calica was a dedicated advocate for our most vulnerable children. He always put their safety and well-being first.
“I send my condolences to Richard’s family and friends. They are in our thoughts and prayers during this most difficult of times.”
* We didn’t have a Golden Horseshoe Award for Best State Agency Director this year because of time constraints. With your permission, I’d like to give it to Calica in memoriam.
- Spliff - Monday, Dec 23, 13 @ 10:43 am:
Good idea and a good Director.
- Knome Sane - Monday, Dec 23, 13 @ 10:51 am:
Sad to lose someone so close to Christmas and New Year’s. Prayers to his family.
- Ghost - Monday, Dec 23, 13 @ 11:03 am:
excellent idea.
- A guy... - Monday, Dec 23, 13 @ 11:09 am:
Rest in Peace as you go out a winner Mr. Calica.
- Anyone Remember? - Monday, Dec 23, 13 @ 1:03 pm:
Excellent choice.
- Oswego Willy - Monday, Dec 23, 13 @ 2:41 pm:
My condolences to his family during this difficult time.
A wonderful idea, Rich.
- Anonymous - Monday, Dec 23, 13 @ 4:20 pm:
Rich, I knew Richard for 30 years, he was glib, brash and sometimes bawdy. His true north was never however in doubt, he wanted what was best for abused and neglected children. Like you, he was a class act. I believe he would have relished the honor.