Obituaries

Jack was a loving husband, father, and grandfather (Papa) who loved his family with all his heart.

He met the love of his life, Patricia, in Chicago’s Back of the Yards area. They were married on May 9, 1964, and shared 62 beautiful years of marriage building a family and a life rooted in faith and devotion. He started his professional life in the mailroom at GM’s Pontiac Motor division, then Belden Wire and Cable. He later went on to work for Waste Management, from which he eventually retired.

Never one take it easy, retirement marked the beginning of a new chapter for Jack. He turned his extensive knowledge as a backyard mechanic, woodworker, and home repair into a second career as a handyman. Always willing to share his time and expertise, he took great joy in teaching his family these skills, frequently helping his children and grandchildren with projects over the years.

Jack’s faith was a cornerstone of his life. He and his family were proud founding members of St. John Neumann Catholic Church in St. Charles. Over the decades, Jack served his parish community as an usher, a leader of small faith groups, and a mentor to engaged couples through the marriage Pre-Cana program.

Always an avid hobbyist, Jack newest hobby lead him to the Illinois Prairie Weavers Guild. He loved the craft, and served as a patient and wonderful instructor at the guild’s public events.

Jack is survived by his loving wife, Patricia (nee Zacek), his devoted children, Craig (Gretchen), David (Deborah), and Karen. His memory and lessons will live on through his cherished grandchildren, Christian, Grace, Callie, Amy, and Charlie. Also survived by his brother Ted (Patricia) and brother-in-law James Zacek. As  well as numerous loving nieces and nephews.

A visitation will be held for Jack on Thursday, October 29, 2026 from 4:00 to 8:00 P.M. at Yurs Funeral Home of St. Charles, 405 E Main St, St. Charles, Illinois. A funeral mass will take place the following morning at St. John Neumann Catholic Church, 2900 E Main St, St. Charles, at 10:30 A.M. Burial to immediately follow at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery in Justice, IL.

For more information, please call Yurs Funeral Home of St. Charles, 630-584-0060.