John Beach

John O. Beach of Kankakee IL passed away February 3, 2012 at his home surrounded by his family. He was born November 14, 1920 in Bradley IL to Adam and Clara (Dancaster) Beach. John married Margaret Hedlin who preceded him in death August 23, 1994. Mr. Beach worked for Sears as a Manager where he retired in 1983. John proudly served our country in the United States Navy. He was a Pearl Harbor survivor and a Chief Boss’ Mate from 1940-1946. Mr. Beach was an avid Chicago Cubs fan, enjoyed the Chicago Bears, LOVED Lawrence Welk (he watched him every night!), loved going to Las Vegas in his younger years, a longtime member of the Moose lodge, and a member of the Sons of Italy.

John is survived by his lifetime partner Mary Puccini of Kankakee. two sons; Dennis and Judy Beach of Bourbonnais , Dean and Pat Beach of Tulsa OK, Step-daughter; Carol and Dennis Mathew, grandchildren; Eric and Christin Beach of Kankakee, step-grandchildren:Jennifer and Lenny Wooten, Matt and Michelle Mathew of Kankakee, great granddaughter Sydney Beach, step-great grandchildren Isaiah, Matt, Kaleb, Anthony, Katelyn, Sophia Mathew, Allie, G’Vaughn, and Paul Stevenson. He was preceded in death by his wife, two brothers and six sisters.

A gathering for family and friends will be Tuesday February 7, 2012 from 10-11 a.m. with a prayer service at 11 a.m. all at the Kankakee Chapel of the Schreffler Life Story Funeral Homes. Rev. Charles Wheeler will officiate. Burial will be held at Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Aroma Twp. following the services. Military honors will also be held at the cemetery. Memorials may be made to Vitas Hospice.