Dr. John Payne
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Dr. John (Jack) Payne of Hinsdale – wonderful husband, dad, uncle, brother, grandfather, friend, and physician. Jack departed this world peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on the morning of November 1st, 2023 after a decade long, courageous battle with renal cancer.
Jack is preceded in death by his parents John and Ginny Payne, his son, William (Billy) Payne, sister Carole Knuti, and nephew, Steven Payne.
Jack was born on October 3, 1946, five minutes before his identical twin brother Jim Payne. He grew up in Western Springs and was a Lyons Township High School graduate in 1964. Childhood summers were spent living at the family cottage in Three Lakes, Wisconsin where he joined the waterski team and performed the high jump on shoe skis – a very difficult feat.
Jack graduated from DePauw University in Greencastle, Indiana with his brother Jim. They both pledged Sigma Chi Fraternity and were active members, striving to better the fraternity until Jack’s final days. Jack met his wife Pam at the Alpha Phi house and they went on to enjoy 53 years of marriage.
In 1970, with little knowledge of the Spanish language, Jack and Pam loaded up their car and drove from Chicago to the Universidad Autonoma de Guadalajara School of Medicine so Jack could attend medical school. Jack’s father John was very encouraging during these challenging years after starting his own OB/GYN practice at LaGrange hospital. Once graduated, he couldn’t wait to return home for his residency years at Loyola University in Chicago.
In 1980, Jack joined his father at The LaGrange Women’s Clinic as an obstetrician/gynecologist. As a doctor, he not only provided excellent medical care, bringing an estimated 7,000 babies into the world, but also served as a source of comfort and support to countless patients throughout his distinguished career. In later years, Jack provided leadership to the hospitals as the President of the Medical Staff at LaGrange Hospital and served in an administrative role for Bolingbrook and Glenn Oaks hospitals.
In August of 1981, Jack and Pam became parents to their first daughter Katie (Adam). The next five years would bless them with Kristin in April 1984, Billy June 1984, and Jacqui (Jerrad) September 1986. Jack’s role as a dad was especially noteworthy. He was the best dad anyone could ask for – a steady and guiding presence in the lives of his children. He shared his passions, imparted valuable life lessons, and nurtured their dreams, always there to offer a listening ear and a reassuring hug. He loved being a dad more than any title.
Jack’s marriage to Pam was one of unwavering love, kindness, and commitment that will forever be a beacon for his family to follow. Jack and Pam loved taking their kids and grandkids to Disney World, winters in Florida with great friends, and summer vacations in the Northwoods at the family cottage. They enjoyed the small pleasures in life just as much – a night-in with friends and a favorite food delivery. Pam and Jack would cozy up to watch Jeopardy every night they could.
Jack had a genuine interest in others and an amazing willingness to lend a helping hand at any time. He knew the importance of making a friend and being a good friend himself. Jack was a cherished confidant to those who were fortunate enough to call him a friend and his relationships were enduring, a testament to the exceptional person he was. There was always room at the table.
Jack maintained lasting bonds with his siblings and was a beloved figure in the lives of his nieces and nephews – always there with a word of advice, a shoulder to lean on, or a helping hand when needed. Jack played a pivotal role in keeping the Three Lakes family cottage together after his parents’ passing. He was incredibly grateful to his family’s messages, visits, and love in his final months. Family coming together was always most important.
As a grandfather, Jack (or as they would call him “He” or “Gramps”) brought joy, laughter, and an abundance of love into the lives of his grandchildren, Lily, Jack, Graham, Cal, and Reed. The ice cream was always flowing and the MnM’s were always in his secret spot. He never watched them play at the playground, but jumped right in, offering his entire self to their games. Jack embraced any chance to play in the pool with the kids, and when that became difficult, he pulled up a chair to the diving well and watched them, smiling, for hours. He was their absolute favorite person.
Jack was a skillful storyteller and could always find a joke to lighten any mood, even in his final moments. Jimmy Buffett was the soundtrack to his life, keeping the party going and offering wise insights within his lyrics. Jack went the extra mile for everyone and truly found joy in others’ happiness. His legacy of love, kindness, and selflessness will continue to inspire and guide us in our own lives. Though he may be physically gone, his spirit will forever remain, a reminder of the profound impact one person can make in the lives of others.
A memorial service to celebrate Dr Payne’s life will be held on November 12th at 10am at The Theater of Western Springs. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, a cause close to his heart. Hawaiian shirts requested, no black. Fins up. Funeral information: 708-352-6500
So beautifully written.
Pam I’m so sorry to hear about Jack, sending prayers and comfort to you and your family.
Mike and Diane Franklin
Praying for you all in this time of need.
We are sorry to hear of Jack’s passing. Send love to the entire family!
I’m so sorry for the whole Payne Family for your loss, your dad was always so much fun to be around. May he rest in peace.
What a wonderful man and loved by many. I felt like a member of the Payne family..Jeff, Claudia, Katie etc.
HUGS
GALE TLAPA
A beautiful soul. Sending love to the entire family.
What a wonderful guy! I got to know him because I was a good friend of Billy, and he always made you feel welcome and just like one of his kids when ever we were at the house! I remember him watching home videos of the kids and calling us in to see, and Billy being mortified. He was bursting with pride for his kids! I later learned that he was the Dr who delivered my brother as a premie in 1981. He gave my parents hope that Ryan would make it and he sure did! Thanks, Dr. Payne, for your kindness and care during such a rough time for them all! Much love to the Payne family and I hope he and Billy are taking a jeep ride and cheersing to a life well lived! ❤️❤️❤️
So sorry for your loss. What a beautiful tribute and such fond memories of one of the best♥️that will bring you some comfort and hopefully sustain you during this difficult time. Love Cathy & Phil
He was a wonderful caring doctor, who always treated the nurses with respect.
Prayers of healing for the family
A remarkable man, filed with kindness, compassion, concern and always that glorious smile. He has left a indelible mark on the world. Your words are beautiful and captures his spirit perfectly. God bless.
I worked with Dr. Payne for many years at LaGrange. He was always so kind and professional. It was my pleasure to know him. My condolences to the entire family.
I was a nurse at LaGrange hospital from 1983-2014 and got to know Dr Payne wile working there. He was always cheerful and thoughtful with a cute sense of humor in dealing with the staff. He was always so very kind and thoughtful of his patients as well. He was always professional and always a gentleman. He will be missed.
What a beautiful friend…rip Jack ..my heart breaks for all of you… no more pain, doctors, only peace ..love and heaven..
We were blessed to have you in our hearts..
You were the guiding light to many of us and you will be missed each day. Your smiling face and positive attitude would raise us up when we needed it. You were my Dr., but most of all my friend. Bobbi.
Jack was such an amazing man filled with such joy an easy smile and always a great story to make you laugh. His presence would light up any room he walked in. I was blessed to call jack my baby doctor and friend. My heart is heavy with his loss but Jesus is thrilled to have him in heaven. We will meet up again !!
What a guy he was! It was a pleasure to work with him
Dear Dr. Payne,
This is a story I have told you more than once and one I need to share again. During my first year of residency, I met you for the first time as I had a gyne case in the ER. You happened to be there for different consult, but you graciously sat down and worked through the case with us, never giving an indication of inconvenience or disinterest. As you were reviewing the thought processes for the case, I kept thinking “This guy is just like my dad”, another OB GYN who practiced at MacNeal. I was so grateful of your time, interest and kindness. Your wonderful spirit showed itself in all parts of your life and practice. You stood by my wife and I through a rough pregnancy. Your innate joy of life while facing your own medical challenges lifted up those around you. I count myself extremely fortunate to have had you as a teacher, colleague, friend. See you in Margaritaville.
My heart hurts because Jack is gone. But, I am so full of appreciation, joy and love that he and Pam came into our lives when we moved in !!!! Jack became my mentor . Jack helped me get back into nursing. Jack and Pam opened their swimming pool for my kids to have endless fun. Thank you Jack for your gift of love that you shared to me and my family . Peace to you now and to your beautiful family that you loved soooo deeply! I see your smile .
I was so blessed to be a patient and my son Jakob was one of the 7,000 babies he delivered. My son Is 18 years old now.
Dr. Payne is a light in this world.
I hope he is water skiing in heaven!
Deepest sympathy to the family.
Kathy
I worked at LaGrange Hospital 1974-2008 and I remember Dr. Jack Payne when he joined the same group as his father. I saw him when I was pregnant with my second son. I also would see him when working in the ER. He was always a pleasure to work with and his presence will be missed. His energy will always shine through those who knew him.
Pam, I’m so sorry to hear of your loss. Jacks parents attended our wedding, 55years ago last week so I have known and been friends of this family for a very long time! Jack was always happy and so patient with everyone — my kids remember flashlight tag at Three Lakes. He will be missed and remembered fondly
I just read in The Hinsdalean of Dr Payne’s passing.
In that article, I learned of his lifelong, DePauw Sigma Chi affiliation and with fond memories, realize my Grandmother, Gladys Toy, was likely his Housemother. Those were wonderful years.
I send my best to your family at this sad time.
Kimberly Schmalz Ochsenschlager
For those of us who grew up in the LG/WS area, Dr. Payne was like a Dad out of a movie. He knew every kid’s name, was exceedingly friendly and generous to everyone, was involved in every team/sport that his kids participated in, and was so supportive of everyone. On top of that, he was incredibly funny and just unbelievably optimistic about everything. He delivered both of my daughters, and honestly there are very few people I can think of that I admire as much as him. He will be deeply missed! I was the only one from my family able to attend the service on Sunday, but they all send their condolences!
Matt Moran
Dr Payne,
I was one of many residents you taught. You may not remember me but I remember your kindness and willingness to spend time even when you were busy. Thank you for everything.
Jayesh Madrecha
Gods Speed Dr Payne!! You were certainly one of a kind. Since the tender age of 20 you were my ob/gyne. You delivered my three children and one of my grandchildren. I was devastated when I found out you were retiring, but very Happy for you!! You were a loving, caring, compassionate soul, who gave his time and shoulder when he knew it was needed. My condolences to the Payne family. May you Fly with the Angels. A great loss for those of us left behind, but a Huge Gain for those already in the Heavenly home!
RIP dear Dr. Payne!
Respectfuly, one of your many loving patients!
Kathy
I was so ‘saddened to learn of the recent passing of Jack Payne. Although I haven’t seen Jack for many years I have wonderful memories of him from our college days. I am so happy to learn of the amazing life he has shared with his awesome wife, Pam, a dear sorority sister of mine.
I send my heartfelt condolences to Pam and the rest of the family. What a huge loss to all! Please know that my thoughts and my prayers are with you all, Sending lots of love Carol Cravens Munro
I just learned of Jack’s passing. My daughter was a friend of Katie’s and enjoyed the love and fun in the Payne household. Rest in peace, Jack. And to the family, I know the many memories you have will help you as you grieve his loss.
My sisters, cousins, nieces and I just learned of Dr Payne’s passing. All of us were patients of the LaGrange Women’s clinic at one time or another. When we would speak of Dr Payne through the years, it was always how much we loved him. He conveyed reverence for patients and motherhood. Later I had the joy to work with him at Hinsdale Hospital. What a joy. As a medical staff leader, he was always wonderful to work with, a great listener, a great advocate for excellence. As I read his beautiful tribute today, I realized how lasting his legacy is for all of us. Thank you for sharing and bringing his life so vividly to mind. We are all better for knowing him. I pray you are comforted learning his life impacted so many. You are in our prayers.
Condolences to the family. John Payne was my 5th grade teacher at Sacred Heart School in Lombard. I believe he was only there one year. I was 12. 10 years later I was at John Marshall Law School and his sister Carole Knuti was my professor. Somehow we connected the dots on this. Just thought I would share.
I just learned of Dr Payne’s passing and my heart goes out to his family and colleagues. He was my doctor for all three of my children’s birthday and beyond….a truly wonderful, caring physician. I know he is with the angels because he already was one on earth to do many.
Learned today of Dr. Payne’s passing. Was very saddened to hear this. I started with Dr. Payne’s father at LaGrange Women’s Clinic. When his father retired I was introduced to Dr. Payne. Absolutely loved him! Good news, bad news always made me feel better! His warm smile and the forever tan will be with me always! Years later learned he was a parrothead and every visit we exchanged stories about recent concerts! Also met his nephew, Ryan, at my place of employment and thought..wonder if he is related..so I called him and sure enough! He, I think was a little embarrassed when I said, He’s your Uncle, I love him! Biggest heart, great smile, would give u the shirt of your back! Rest In Peace my friend and “Bubbles Up!”
So sorry to hear about the passing of Dr Payne. I loved that man! Him and his father delivered my kids and grandkids! Dr Payne was so kind and I looked forward to our visits. I’m sure our Dear Lord said “A great job good and faithful servant”!
Just saw this obituary and had to write – he delivered my son in 1994 . I was delighted he showed up ‘On Call’ the night I went into labor, as he was my favorite of the many doctors at the LG Women’s Clinic. Loved his sense of humor, however I saw the serious side of him at 2:30am (let’s get this baby delivered!). May he be ever happy and in heavenly peace. What a great guy.