John S. Risser, 61 of Algonquin, IL, fought a courageous battle against cancer till the end. He died peacefully, July 5, 2014 with his wife at his side.
A Visitation will be Thursday, July 24, 2014 from 3-7pm at DeFiore Jorgensen Funeral Home-10763 Dundee Road, Huntley. A Mass will be celebrated, Friday, July 25 2014 at 10:00am at St. Mary Catholic Church-10307 Dundee Road, Huntley. In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
John was born January 3, 1953 the son of Francis and Geraldine Risser and was raised in Keokuk, Iowa. John was an excellent basketball player at Cardinal Stritch High School. He also played on the golf team, setting a course record at the country club in his youth. John served as an Altar boy and was loved by his family and friends.
Upon his graduation from the University of Iowa, John moved to the Chicago area and began his career. John enjoyed his work as a Financial Controller and did an impeccable job. On May 24, 1986 he married Jacqueline J. Horvath. John and Jaci were not only spouses, but best friends. The greatest joy and pride for John was his family. Their children, Kimi and Kevin have benefited from John’s kind, gentle and daily involvement in their growth and development. While the loss of their Father is irreplaceable, John’s impact on their lives will help to sustain them to grow to their true potential.
John and his family enjoyed nature, various volunteer groups helping children and animals, playing golf and just being together.
John knew the importance of giving to others less fortunate and being a positive force in the world. He taught this by example to his children and it is his prayer that they continue this family tradition throughout their lives
He is survived by his wife, Jaci, his children, Kimberly and Kevin. He is also survived by his sisters, Jan (Bob) Naggs, Marilyn (Lloyd) Weber and by many beloved nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews and by very special Sister-in-law, Patty Horvath. John will be sorely missed by his beloved dogs and cat. He is preceded in death by his parents and by his sister, Judy.
For further information please call the funeral home at 847-515-8772 or on-line condolences may be directed to www.defiorejorgensen.com
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We are so sorry for the loss of your Husband, Father and Dear Friend. We felt lucky to have the opportunity to know him and work with him. He will be greatly missed by all. The Family is in our thoughts and prayers. Fondly, Pete and Rita
I grew up in the same neighborhood that John did in Keokuk Iowa. We had lots of fun playing baseball in the Streets hide and seek and all the fun games. I went to school with Jan (best friend) and Marilyn. My heart goes out to all the family I know words cannot express how saddened I am My thoughts and prayers go out to all of you. John was from a wonderful family and he carried it on with his family and to the world God Bless
John was my first best friend as we grew up in the same neighborhood in Keokuk and are about the same age. We spent a lot of time together playing everything from kickball in the street to golf at the Elks. I have thought of him often over the years and would hear from his Mother from time to time what a fine family he has. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time.
Dear Jaci: My deep sympathy to you and your family. I was so sad to read of John's passing at such an early age. I worked for Tom McNulty at Enterprise Paint and John's office was next door, with the Univ. of Iowa helmet on his desk. He was always so pleasant. It was nice working with you and the others in the credit dept. there. You and yours are in my prayers. Take care.
John and I were on the Cardinal Stritch H.S. golf team together so of course, we played a lot of golf together. He was great, I was terrible, but he always patiently tried to help me. Thoughts and prayers for the family, nothing but birdies forever John.....
Dear Daddy, Ilysm and you'll always be by my side. I'll never let go of your hand...
John was an amazing friend, husband, and dad. Everyone loved him. He is someone that you just cant stop thinking about. Miss you and thinking of you. 3
John was a pleasure to have as a neighbor and may I say, we've been a little jealous of his lawn! In our thoughts and his family in our prayers.
I went to college with John and he was in a few of my classes. He is a joy and an amazing basketball player. He left this world with his head up high and smile on his face. May Gods kingdom welcome him with open hearts.
Love you