John “Jack” Hagan was born September 21, 1931 to his parents, John Martin Hagan and Margaret (née Kenny) Hagan, in Riverside, IL. Jack was a natural athlete and could usually be found outdoors playing whatever games were seasonal. During his elementary and high school years he made lifelong friendships. Jack loved school. Despite a few pranks here and there, he had great respect for his teachers. At Riverside-Brookfield high school he excelled in track, being named to the Look Magazine All-American high school track team in 1948.

 

Jack continued his academic and athletic pursuits at Indiana University, where he formed enduring friendships with his Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity brothers. After graduating with a business degree in 1953, he joined the U.S. Air Force. Honorably discharged, he went to work in Chicago, where most notably he met his future wife, Libbie Kolt, whom he wed on May 10, 1958. Jack and Libbie began their family during a brief stint in the San Francisco area, returning to the Chicago suburbs in 1960. Jack went on to a distinguished career in the business forms industry. In retirement, he continued his involvement in civic life, serving on boards and committees and giving motivational talks to high school students. He derived great enjoyment from watching high school sports, and could frequently be found on the sidelines or bleachers of local games and tournaments. He was a parishioner of Old St. Patrick’s Church in Chicago. Until his death, Jack maintained a wide circle of friends and an active social life.

 

 

Of all his achievements, Jack was proudest of his family. His children and grandchildren were the light of his life. The values of hard work, active faith and unostentatious charity were planted in his children through his teaching and example. As the family grew through marriages and births, Jack found his true calling as a grandfather. His best days were spent with Libbie and as many of the kids and grandkids and spouses that could be gathered together for any occasion.

 

Jack is survived by his wife of 66 years, Libbie Hagan, and his children Shelley, Brian (Julie) and Kevin (Carol). He is further survived by grandchildren Kathleen (Jeff) Sheehy, Grace, Stephanie (John) Lauer, Michael (Emily), Spencer (Katie), Joanna and John; great-grandchildren Tegan and Kingston; and other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Kenneth Hagan, sister Marlene Hagan, and beloved uncle and aunt Joseph and Patricia Kenny.

 

A 9:30am Memorial Visitation until time of 10:00am Mass will be held on Tuesday, April 22nd at St. Francis Xavier Church, 124 N. Spring Ave., La Grange. Inurnment private. In lieu of flowers, memorials to your charity of choice are appreciated.

 

Arrangements entrusted to Hallowell & James Funeral Home, Countryside at 708-352-5600.