Joseph J. Dames, 84, of Indian Head Park, was a longtime union activist. He died Wednesday in Foster McGaw Hospital in Maywood. Mr. Dames, who also lived for many years in Cicero, worked for Western Electric Co. for 47 years. He was a charter member of the AFL-CIO, serving on the executive board of Local 1859 of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers and helping organize the IBEW in plants across the country. In addition to his union activities, Mr. Dames was active in the Knights of Columbus Mundelein Council and the Jaeger Club. Survivors include a daughter, Diane Whitacre; three sons, Roy, Don and Jim; two brothers; eight grandchildren; and a great-grandson. Visitation will be held from 2 to 9 p.m. Sunday in Hallowell & James Funeral Home, 1025 W. 55th St., Countryside. Mass for Mr. Dames will be said at 9:30 a.m. Monday in St. John of the Cross Church at 51st Street and Wolf Road in Western Springs.
