John “Jack” Walsh
John E. “Jack” Walsh passed away peacefully on Friday, April 21, 2023, at the age of 97. He was a true gentleman, known for his ready smile, joy of life, and kindness to those who needed it most. Jack was predeceased by his beloved wife Jacque, and their eldest son Jack. He is survived by eight children: Joan (Gerard Purcell), David (Cathy Conrad), Philip, Carol Rosentreter (James), Barry, James (Kathy), Peter (Lisa) and Elizabeth Slezak (Braden). Jack has nine grandchildren, Kristine Kelly (Jim), Jon Paul Rosentreter (Chelsea), Eric Rosentreter (Susan), Kristen Rosentreter (Bret Solnoki), Jack, Alison and David Slezak, Alayna and Egan Walsh. His three great grandchildren are Lily Spoerke, Ethan and Wyatt Solnoki.
Born on the South Side of Chicago, Jack was an honor roll student at Leo High School and was awarded a scholarship to the University of Louisville, where he graduated with a B.S. in Finance. While in college, he enrolled in the Naval ROTC rising to First Lieutenant. Jack’s business career included many years in sales for the 3M company, followed by years as a Financial Advisor at Shearson Lehman Brothers and Prescott, Ball and Turben. In his retirement years, he enjoyed being a ranger at Cog Hill golf course. He and his family have been Western Springs residents for 60 years. Jack was an active member in St. John of the Cross Parish, serving on the advisory board, acting as an extraordinary minister, lector, CCD instructor, and for many years, coach of the church’s high school basketball team.
A celebration of Jack’s life will be held on Friday, April 28 at St. John of the Cross Church, 5005 Wolf Road, Western Springs. Visitation will take place at the church from 10-11am, followed by a Funeral Mass at 11am. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to St. Thomas Hospice, 119 E. Ogden Ave, Suite 111, Hinsdale, IL 60521. Interment will be private at Queen of Heaven Cemetery.
Thank you Jack Walsh for moving to Western Springs 60 years ago and sharing his life and family with all of us. Western Springs and the St John’s community were absolutely made more special by him and his whole family. Condolences to the whole Walsh family from the whole Cozza family!
Thank you Jay, and thank you for coming to Dad’s service yesterday!
Jay, Thank you for these thoughtful words and for visiting our family at my father’s services. it was so nice to see you and Dan.
Carol
Rest in peace, Jack. You were a wonderful role model to all who knew you. The Hill family felt truly blessed to have you as a friend.
God speed as you join your dearest Jacque.
Love you dearly,
Monica and Family
Thank you for driving all the way up from St. Louis to attend Dad’s service! It was wonderful to see you!
Dear Monica, You and all the Hills are such dear friends to our family. Thank you for coming to the services. Bless you! Carol
Mr. Walsh, it was a pleasure being around you. You & your family are truly one of a kind.
God Bless you & your family.
Sincerely,
Aldo Marin & Family
La Grange Park, IL.
Thanks Aldo! He was a great guy!
Rest in Peace, Mr. Walsh.
We are very grateful for your life, your family, and your friendship. Your optimism and humor were always a delight. Your visits to my parents at Plymouth Place were always warm, bright, refreshing, and funny.
My memory of growing up next to Jack Walsh and his family will always be about conversations over the back fence, wiffle ball games in the front yard, basketball games in the backyard, and wonderful genuine neighborliness.
Best wishes to all of the Walsh Family and may Jack’s life make you proud and grateful.
Sincerely,
Mark Paul
P.S. – Sorry to have missed the service.
Dear Mark, Thank you for these thoughtful words and warm memories of being next door neighbors. We felt blessed to have your family close by. Carol
Dear Mark,
Thank you so much for your kind words! We have fond memories of having you and your family as such wonderful neighbors. Your mom and dad were such good examples for us.
(Don’t forget pingpong on your front porch, and sitting in the dentist (?) chair!)
Best,
Jim Walsh