John J. (Jack) Walsh
August 8, 1931 — November 15, 2015
Ret. Sergeant John J. Walsh “Jack,” age 84, entered into eternal life on Sunday, November 15, 2015 due to complications from a fall.
John is survived by his two loving children, Laura (Jack) Dolehide and Dale (Liz) Walsh; daughter-in-law Cynthia Walsh; his dear grandchildren, Shelly (Rob Jr.) Andreina, Anna Walsh, John, Colleen, Kelly, Erin, Patrick, Brigid, Caitrin, Brendan, Liam Dolehide, Ricky, Nicole, Dru and Kaitlin Walsh; five great-grandchildren; dear sister, Kathleen (Thomas) Reidy; brother, Gary (Rose) Walsh; brothers and sisters-in-law, Frank (Sandy) Santoro, Donald (the late Karen) Brazeal and Marylou (Dale) Garland; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and loving friends, especially his extended family at the Wilmington VFW Post #5422.
Preceded in death by his beloved wife of 61 years, Lillian F. (nee Santoro) Walsh (2013); son, Wayne A. Walsh (2007); parents, Joseph and Eileen (nee Blattner) Walsh; sister, Karen Brazeal.
Prior to retiring from a 25 year career with Illinois State Police District #5, reaching the rank of Sergeant, he spent some of that time teaching and training young recruits at the Police Academy in Springfield along with serving the public as one of the most respected officers in the area. Jack also retired from the Local Teamsters #179. He donated his time as troop leader for the Will County Explorers. He was an expert marksman, an avid golfer and fisherman. For the last 30 years Jack divided his time between Florida, Arizona, and his home in Braidwood, IL with his wife Lillian until her passing.
Donations in Jack’s name to VFW Post #5422, 557 W. Baltimore St, Wilmington, IL 60481 or Masses to be said in his name at St. Rose Church in Wilmington would be appreciated.
A Celebration of Jack’s life will begin on Saturday, November 21, 2015 with a visitation from 9:00 a.m. until the time of Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m. at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, 604 S. Kankakee St., Wilmington, IL 60481. Interment to follow at Woodlawn Memorial Park. Visitation will be Friday, November 20 from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Tezak Funeral Home, 1211 Plainfield Road, Joliet.