Will County Gazette

John D. "Jack" DeFries, 89, of Shorewood, passed away peacefully at Lightways Hospice Home, with his loving family by his side. Survived by his daughter Gayle Carroll, grandchildren Allison Butin, Sean Carroll, Eric Carroll, Nicholas DeFries, Rachel DeFries, step-grandchildren Taylor McGiles, Emilyee McGiles, great-grandchildren Aria, Zoe, Raelyn, and Fia, and numerous nieces and nephews. Jack was preceded in death by his parents John and Ann DeFries, his wife Jean, his son Keith, and siblings.

A veteran of the United States Army during the Korean Conflict, Jack later had a successful career as an envelope salesman at Mailwell. He was a member of Mission Bible Church in Minooka and had a passion for Chicago sports, especially hockey. Jack enjoyed crosswords, game shows like Jeopardy, but above all, he cherished spending time with his grandchildren and family. Known for his quick wit and sense of humor, Jack's devotion to God, family, and country shone through in every aspect of his life.

A memorial visitation will be held on Thursday, November 21, 2024, at Forsythe Gould Funeral Home from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 11:30 a.m. Inurnment with full military honors will be at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, IL, at 1:00 p.m. Donations in Jack's memory can be made to Lightways Hospice in Joliet, IL.

Arrangements are entrusted to Forsythe Gould Funeral Home in Manhattan, IL. Expressions of sympathy and condolences can be shared at www.forsythegouldfh.com. Flowers or trees can be sent in memory of Jack via the provided floral store.

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