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Burns Funeral Home & Crematory - Crown Point

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Crown Point, Indiana

John Lachowicz Obituary

JOHN JOSEPH LACHOWICZ, JR. "Johnny" Lake of the Four Seasons Crown Point, Indiana John Joseph Lachowicz, Jr. "Johnny" age 12 years of Lake of the Four Seasons in Crown Point, Indiana, passed away on Friday, June 24, 2005 after a courageous 2 1/2 year battle fighting Osteosarcoma, a rare childhood bone cancer. He is survived by his loving parents, Valerie and John Lachowicz. He is dearly missed by his sister, Stephanie Lachowicz. He is the cherished grandchild of Shirley and Bill Wicknam; the nephew of Tony (Lori) Lachowicz and Lori (Marc) Ruciiti; the cousin of Jackie Ruchti, Lisa Rowe, David Lachowicz and Steven Lachowicz. Johnny was an Honor Student at Boone Grove Middle School. He belonged to the Four Seasons Junior Golf Academy. He was a Soccer Player for the Four Seasons Soccer Club and was a member of Holy Spirit Church. Funeral Services will be held on Tuesday, June 28, 2005 at 9:00 A.M. at the Burns Funeral Home, 10101 Broadway, Crown Point, to Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 7667 E. 109th Avenue, Crown Point, for a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 A.M. with Rev. Joseph E. Murphy officiating. Friends can meet with the family at the Burns Funeral Home, 10101 Broadway, Crown Point on Monday, from 2:00 to 8:00 P.M. Prayer Services will be offered on Monday, at 7:00 P.M. Donations may be made to the Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation or the Raising Spirits Foundation, Inc. in his loving memory. He will be dearly missed. To share a memory with the family or to offer your condolences, please view the obituary to sign the Guest Book at www.post-trib.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Post-Tribune from Jun. 26 to Jun. 27, 2005.

Memories and Condolences
for John Lachowicz

Sponsored by Mom, Dad, & Stephanie.

Not sure what to say?





Cheri Nicol

June 20, 2019

Johnny, We will NEVER forget you because YOU live in our HEARTS FOREVER

Garrett Wardell

July 8, 2015

Johnny,
It has been over ten years since you passed and although I cannot say I think about you every day, I think about you so very often. I do not know if I could every be the person I am today without losing such a close friend. For the longest time I was angry that someone would make such a young, innocent child suffer through such a painful disease, but I have learned over the past decade that life is worth so much more then many people care to acknowledge. I live every day of my life with as much love, passion, courage, and energy that you would have wanted me to. When I am down in life and feel like giving up I think of you and I know that you are with me, cheering me on throughout any turmoil that comes my way. Through losing you Johnny, I have learned to live life wearing your contagious smile, sharing your genuine laughter, and spreading the love to the world that you would have if you were still here today. I have lost a great friend but I have gained a guardian angel. Thank you Johnny for being the greatest and only inspiration that I need. Thank you for giving me the strength to get up when life knocks me down and thank you for teaching me how precious life truly is.

Valerie Lachowicz

September 22, 2013

Johnny,
Missing you always hits me like a brick. We went to Vegas to celebrate Tyler's 21st. This would be your 21st in March. Everyone thinks of you often and will never forget. The little ones coming in to my room hear of you at the soccer field and golfing.
Love you the mostest,
Mommy

Lori Ruchti

November 8, 2009

Johnny,
I think of you every day and miss you so much. If you find it possible, try to comfort your Mom & Dad. We all try, but it is hard when we have lost a part of our hearts too. Love Always! Aunt Lori

Valerie Lachowicz

July 29, 2008

Johnny,
School will be starting again soon. Your friends are starting to get their driving licenses. They are all growing up so quickly. Remember the red Corvet. How I miss you!
Love always,
Mom

Shirley(Grandma) Wickham

February 8, 2008

EASTER 2008
Johnny is my only grandson.
At 12 he became an angel boy.
In life he loved everyone:
His sister with glee
He tried to annoy.
He teased and tusseled
With his dad.
And he simply adored
His mother.
Grandma and Grandpa
Made him glad.
He treated each friend
Like a brother.
Johnny turns fifteen on Easter Day
He celebrates on God's High Stairs.
With a grin he turns to us to say,
"Be happy with me in your thoughts,
memories and prayers."

Donna Gagliardi

December 23, 2006

Dear Valerie,

I saw you the other day and gave you a hug. I told you I think about you often. You have no idea how often I do. I think about you, Johnny, and your family because I have a son Johnny's age and my heart bleeds for you. I know your life is changed forever. Nobody truly understands the loss of a child unless you have gone through it. You will never be the same, although you looked fine when I saw you, I know you are not. I know this because I am a mother. I know this because I am an aunt and godmother of an angel in heaven and there is no greater loss than that of a child.

Merry Christmas, Chrissy and Johnny! You are always in our minds, in our thoughts, and in our hearts.

God Bless You and your family and God keep you in HIS care!

Valerie Lachowicz

December 23, 2006

Johnny,
Christmas is here. You are now spending you second Christmas with Jesus. We miss you so much. Your stocking is up and we fill it with prayers as we think of you often. Our lives can never be the same without you.
Love,
Mom, Dad and Steph

Valerie Lachowicz

October 20, 2006

Johnny,
Halloween is coming. I remember how you loved the holiday. You didn't like shopping though. Once you were Batman. The next year you used the same costume for Batman Returns. Yet, the next year you squeezed into it one more time as Batman forever. Oh Johnny, how I miss you.
Love,
Mom

Grandma Grandpa

June 26, 2006

OUR TREASURED GRANDSON

Johnny was our gift from God.

He lit up our lives for 12 years.

We treasure each and every moment

And could never erase even one from memory.

As we go on living we are reminded daily

By a word, a phrase, an act, a happening.

Johnny lives on in our thoughts and hearts

And we feel loved and blessed because of him.

Grandma and Grandpa

Lori Ruchti

June 26, 2006

Johnny, We were again at Jackie's taekwondo competitions and she did well. All she has to do is think of you and she fights her heart out knowing she is still not fighting as hard as you once did. We pass by a huge cross in Illinois that we always say a prayer at hoping you will get our message of undying love. Our love for you will live on forever. The flares of love hope to reach you in heaven! Your strength was and will live on in all those lives that you touched. Loving you Always, Aunt Lori, Uncle Marc and Jackie

Tyler Nicol

June 26, 2006

A year has passed since Johnny's death. I think of him all the time. I feel him on the soccer field with me and I know he's there. As I laid flowers on the grave, It is still hard to believe. I know Johnny will always be with me and that makes me feel good. We will always be BEST FRIENDS.

Joe Martin

June 24, 2006

Its been a year since Johnny's death. I still can't believe he's gone and when I try to think about it I can't wrap my mind around it. I think about him every week. I miss him and I know nothing will bring him back but I wish he was but he's in a better place.

Joe Martin

June 24, 2006

Its been a year since Johnny's death. I still can't believe he's gone and when i try to think about it I can't wrap my mind around it. I think about him every week. I miss him and i know nothing will bring him back but I wish he was but he's in a better place now.

Valerie Lachowicz

June 21, 2006

Johnny,



My life has changed forever without you.

Others can not see the change.

People are glad to see my eyes are dry.



But I still cry. When everyone is gone .

I cry in privacy so others don’t worry.

I cry until I am exhausted and I fall to sleep.



I go to work and plan for the children.

People are surprised I made it through the year.

They admire my strength and attitude.



I do not feel strong as I drive to work each day.

I remember how you always found the best

in even the worst behaved child in my class.

It gives me more patience when I think of you.

It reminds me of how the parents take their gifts for granted.

How much can be lost.



I feel the eyes of people’s pity.

They tell me they are glad I’m holding up so well.



They should see me driving home.

Knowing you are not there

Hating to go there without you.

Yet wanting so bad to be where you once were.

I panic from the thought of being without you.



I go about the routine of my day.

I drink my tea and smile at other’s jokes.

They tell me their glad I’m over the death of my son.



I feel I never want to be over it.

My heart has been scared.

Many times each day that scare opens up with pain.

Losing someone I loved so much has permanently scared my life.



I take Steph to all her school activities.

People tell me it is good to see me back to my old self.



I will never be back to my old self.

Memories are all I have.

Your death has touched my life so deeply.

I am forever changed.



Missing you!

Love,

Mom

Lori Ruchti

April 24, 2006

At the soccer field dedication I had prepared a little something to say. Since there was no time, I am logging this into this legacy book. The first paragraph was sent to me by Johnny's grandparents. The rest is from me and Jackie, Johnny's cousin.



Dear Johnny: We are writing this to you and know that you are up there watching this glorious commemoration. From the time you were very small kicking the soccer ball through the years of perfecting your skills and until soccer became the core interest of your life, you were a fine sportsman and dedicated team player. Grandma and Grandpa always enjoyed watching your games. Your life is a great example for all children learning the sport and aspiring to become good soccer players. We are with you in spirit! Love, Grandma and Grandpa



Johnny loved soccer. He helped to teach my daughter how to play. She player her first year of soccer with Johnny and his Dad here at the Seasons Soccer Field. My husband learned to coach here and our whole famikly felt Johnny's contagious enthusiasm for the sport.



Cancer may have taken Johnny's life, but it cannot quench his sportsloving spirit that lives in us. It will never shut out the great memories we had here and elsewhere throughout his life. Johnny's spirit remains triumphant on this day of honor.



My daughter wrote a prayer to Johnny:



The lord is my shepherd, he keeps me by his side.

He feeds me and takes care of me, He is the O'powerful one.

I love him and worship him. He is the lord.

The great and powerful lord.

He knows when it is time and when it is not.

He's taken my cousin and O' how I miss him.

But, the lord said that it is okay, so I am fine.

O, Johnny, where are you?

I miss you and love you so.

You are my most special cousin of all.

We used to play together, have fun together, Do everything together.

But, everything has changed. Nothing's the same anymore--ever since you left.

Amen.

Joe Martin

April 22, 2006

At my school, my class are writing poems. We had to write an Ode about somone and I chose Johnny. My Poem is:



You are my best friend

You are like my brother born one day apart.

I may have moved away

And you may be gone

But you’re my best friend no matter what

I saw you everyday at pre-school

Going outside with older kids during naptime

Memories will never die

I regret only talking to you 3 months before the day

You still live in you’re friends and families hearts

I wish you were still here today

12 years old is too young

Someday I hope to see you again



Joe Martin

Tyler Nicol

April 17, 2006

My name is Tyler. Johnny and I were BEST FRIENDS. Saturday, April 15th was a Wonderful way to Celebrate Johnny's Life. We enjoyed many things, but IT WAS ALL ABOUT SOCCER. We were forwards and goalie's together and we enjoyed every minute in every game. I planted a Pear Tree in his memory.



He was my Classmate, Teammate, and MY BEST FRIEND. Johnny, Today is your DAY! YOU will NEVER be forgotten. I miss YOU.

Grandma & Grandpa Wickham

April 9, 2006

Johnny, when you began your fight against osteo sarcoma, I flew home from Florida to be with you and help out. Grandpa wanted to come too, but as we had no home in the area we felt it would be too much of a burden on your parents. When your mom had some time off, I thought it was time for me to fly back to Florida and help Grandpa pack up and come north where we were having a house built. I told you how sorry I was that I would miss your tenth birthday. You smiled and said, "That's alright, Grandma. You were here all of this time when I really needed you, and that's what counts." Once again, Johnny, we're sorry we won't be there for the special dedication of the soccer season at the field you loved most. We know you understand how much we care. We'll be right out there when we get home to see the memorial.

Love through eternity,

Grandma and Grandpa

Valerie and John Lachowicz

March 23, 2006

Johnny,

Family and friends remember the days once spent with you.

We miss your smile, your warm embrace, the way you lighted up the room.

You never let the cancer rule your life but fought with all your might,

to do the things the other boys did without letting your pain show through.

Your life was taken as you were just starting to grow up.

Your strength, your courage to fight this illness surpassed the mightiest of men.

God chose to show you mercy and called you home to him.

Your memory will stay with us forever while you suffer no more in heaven.

We miss your hugs, your jokes, your love,

and wait for the day we'll be together in heaven to hold each other tight.

Happy Birthday Johnny!

With all my love,

Mommy



Johnny,



You entered this world loved by a few

and left being loved by all that were fortunate to know you.



You filled our hearts with love & joy each day,

just being you, in your special way.



I can still see your eyes of deep sea blue

that would light up a room as you walked thru.



We miss your gentle smile and quick wit,

how you scared your sister just for the fun of it.



The time we had seems like a wink of an eye.

It was just to short and I can't help but cry.



Your family and friends all miss you so,

but our memories of Johnny we'll never let go.

We miss you son,

Dad

Mary (Marysia) Quesnell (Ceanowski)

March 16, 2006

John and family,

I hope this is the same Johnny Lachowicz that lived on Virginia Street in Gary, Indiana and went to Holy Family School. This is Mary Ceranowski. Our moms were very good friends. I always read the obituaries and I saw Lachowicz. I am sooo sorry for the lose of your young son. I know your pain. 8 years ago I lost my 3 year old grandson and I know there is NO pain as bad as that. I lost both my parents but there is just NO pain like losing a child. Tyler, my grandson and his mom lived with me. You say, "they're in a better place" and that's very true but it doesn't really make it hurt any less. I've been meaning to get ahold of you and your family and tell you how sorry I am and I was thinking of you and yours. Take care and I'll say a prayer for your angel in heaven.

Marysia Quesnell(Ceranowski)

Aunt Lori Ruchti

February 14, 2006

Johnny, I am thinking of you so much. You helped me plan Jackie's Valentine Party last year while I was with you. The boys all loved the tug of war you suggested even if it was against school rules. You were also such a big help filtering those valentine cards out for the filler activity. Well, Jackie's birthday planning with you included roller-blading and I was so surprised when you gave it a whirl. You had so much courage and determination that you were an example for all that knew you. We are going back to the skate rink again and we wish you could join us in person. We will carry you with us in our hearts and souls this year.



I miss you so much it hurts. It is Valentine's Day and you will always be remembered by me for the sweetheart you truly were.



Love 4-Ever,

Aunt Lori R.



P.S. I wonder if Bill Gates has figured out a way yet to connect to heaven. He's a genious. Maybe???

Cheri Nicol

February 8, 2006

Dear John, Val & Stephanie,

Seven months have past and I still feel Johnny's presents in our home. I see his smile everyday when I look at Tyler. Best Friends,that's what they are. Like two peas in a pod. Their favorite food was Cheese Pizza and Taco Bell. I miss taken them both there. He was a Great inspiration to us ALL..Tyler misses him and we often talk about his fun ways. He will live in ALL of US.

Max Lynch

December 29, 2005

Johnny, You are the child of my Goddaughter and I have loved you since your birth. Watching you grow up was a joy. You always gave me a good feeling with your fun loving nature. Knowing you has changed my life for the better and I shall be ever grateful to you. You were a good role model for those of us who are left here. You are an inspiration for us to be with you and Jesus some day. God loves you, Max

Nina Lynch

December 27, 2005

In Memory of Johnnie from Nina



Johnnie, I enjoy remembering

Your ever-present smile!

You never seemed discouraged,

You went an extra mile---



To make sure those around you,

Did not get upset,

By noticing your problem,--

You hoped that they'd forget!



I know you're having soccer fun,

Or what you and Jesus decide to do!

I look forward to seeing you again,

Where unbearable pain is through!



In the love of Jesus, Nina

Joe Martin

December 24, 2005

I never really spent a Christmas with Johnny, unless you count the Loving Care Christmas shows. But since I can't remember those moments I feel that I can't count the as memories. I still can't accept the fact that he's gone and not a day goes by that I wish that he was still here. I wasn't part of his family ,but he felt like family to me. He was my best friend and I regret not talking to him when I moved down here and I will never forget him.

Merry Christmas,

Joe

Grandma & Grandpa Wickham

December 21, 2005

We almost took down the ping-pong table - he was such a good player. It was difficult to put ornaments on the tree - we had made a game of searching for favorites. (A Santa dispensing chocolate kisses was his favorite.) Our nutcracker collection marches around bringing back memories of a little Johnny playing with them. The electronics department in stores is to be avoided - he was such an expert. But then I feel Johnny's hug and see his smile and hear him holler,"Grandma's here!" and know that it is Johnny who is "here" with us in our hearts. He is our Christmas Angel. We cherish the twelve years we shared and know he will be "There" to greet us on the last day.

Julio RODRIGUEZ

December 20, 2005

steph-I REALLY DIDNT KNOPW JOHNNY BECAUSE I GOT HERE LATE IN THE SCHOOL YEAR BUT I WOULD TALK TO HIM WHEN I HAD MY CHANCES BUT THEY WHERE REALLY SHORT.ALL I REALLY KNEW IS THAT HE WAS A GOOD KID AND HE WAS REALLY SMART.HE ALWAYS HAD A SMILE ON HIS FACE. I WILL MISS HIM . JULIO

julio Rodriguez

December 20, 2005

steph-I REALLY DIDNT KNOW JOHNNY BECAUSE I GOT HERE LATE LAST YEAR BUT I WOULD TALK TO HIM WHEN I HAD MY CHANCES BUT THEY WHERE REALLY SHORT.ALL I REALLY KNEW IS THAT HE WAS A GOOD KID AND HE WAS SMART.HE ALWAYS HAD A SMILE ON HIS FACE CASUE HE WAS HAPPY I`LL MISS HIM SINCERLY, JULIO

Lauren and Diana Gullett

December 20, 2005

We will always remember the Breakfasts with Santa. We will always remember Johnny being so excited about going to sit on Santa's lap. We keep you in our thoughts and prayers.

Lovingly,

Lauren and Diana

JoAnn Butler

December 19, 2005

As you spend your first Christmas in heaven Johnny, know that you are not forgotten. You were such a BRAVE, RESILIENT, ASPIRING, TRIUPHANT tiger, as you fought your battle with cancer, and I will always remember you very lovingly as my BRAT! I know that you are watching over Mom, Dad and Steph, as they face this first Christmas without you. I pray that the love, strength and courage that you all showed during your treatment will help them get through this time. YOU WILL FOREVER BE IN THE HEARTS OF THOSE THAT LOVED YOU.

Diana Morin

December 19, 2005

As Christmas approaches, I fondly remember Alex and Johnny spending so many special times together - decorations at Marty's Restuarant, New Year's Eve sleep overs, vacations at Great Wolf Lodge and Wisconsin Dells, and many, many birthday celebrations. Each occasion brings a bit of sadness to us, especially Alex, along with a smile and a warm memory. We can only hope that Johnny is looking down and remembering each occasion with a smile and a happy heart, as well.

Stephanie Lachowicz

December 9, 2005

Christmas with Jesus



I still hear the wind howling.

I still see dad sawing on one knee.

I still feel your love,

When looking for a Christmas tree.



There is no reason for you to be

sorry,

That now is when we greive.

It was your favorite time of year,

Your favorite day Christmas Eve.



When putting up Christmas lights,

When out in the snow to play,

When decorating the tree,

You are still close, but in a new

way.



We all love you dearly.

And, shouldn't be shedding tears.

For you have it better than us.

Your spending Christmas with

Jesus this year.



With all my love,

Your Sister

Jake Dover

November 29, 2005

Well i remember the time where me nate kay and my mom came down to the cottage we all went tubing and me n johnny kept falling off the shikabob. We didn't see eachother much but each time was fun.

Lauren Mastey

September 4, 2005

Stephanie Marie Lachowicz!**

I love you so much and i have no idea what i would do with out you! it was such a hard time for you because losin someone so close is never easy!i know you loved him soo much and he loved you too! i tried my best to help you through it! i love you soo much and i dont no what i would do with out you! we have helped each other throuh thick and thin! and you are the bestest friend ever! thanks for everythin! I LOVE YOU SOOO MUCH! Johnny RIP i love you!

Gabby Reppert

August 23, 2005

Steph- i know me n' u dont get along that well but believe me i know wat ur going through,i also lost my brother and i also lost my father so if u need anyone 2 tlk 2 u can trust me. u just need 2 stay strong n think of wat a good life he had. im really sorry about wat happened to him and i hope u feel better about this situation.

john fioretti

August 17, 2005

hey steph i never got to get to know johnny and never knew much about him but he was the funnest golfer to play with.

johnny

Chrissy Buchanan

August 9, 2005

Stephanie,

I just cant express how much i admire you and your family, you have all been so strong threw all of this and it is truley amazing. Jhonny honeslty a great kid. He was smart and funny he will always be loved and remebered and you know i <33 u and i will always be there and if you need someone you know where to find me

xoxox-

Jesse Russell

July 25, 2005

Stephanie and Family, I am so sorry to hear about Johnny. He was a great kid, and more or less, and great brother and son. I know how bad it can hurt. If there is anything, anything, I can do, please let me know. I am also here for you. Love ya lots

Jesse

David Parks

July 12, 2005

Stephanie I am sorry to hear about your brother. I did not know him but if he was related to you he had to be really special. Ihope eveything goes alrite

Julie Peceny

July 10, 2005

The Lachowicz Family:

Johnny was a great kid. He was always smiling and tryin to make people laugh. He will always be remembered as a wonderful person. I am so sorry to have him gone. He is in a better place. Stephanie I am always there for you if you need me.

Marc Ruchti

July 4, 2005

Johnny:

You were the first baby I ever held. You were like a brother to my daughter, and as close to a son as I will ever be blessed to have.

I wish I could have better expressed to you how much I cared for you. I will miss the times we had like snow skiing, chess and even arguing over music.

Throughout your life you lived it with a smile. At 10 years of age how could you know the impossible battle you would have to endure and fight. Yet throughout it all you made me proud. You handled your plight with a quiet dignity beyond your 12 years.

To honor your life, I promise to never overlook the gift of life, but rather embrace all its physical and spiritual marvels; from the 'Minis' of the world to the stars above.

"Beyond the door,

There is peace I am sure.

And I know there will be no more,

tears in heaven." -Eric Clapton



Love always,

Uncle Marc

Betty & Bob Perks

July 4, 2005

It's amazing & a blessing that one little 12 year old boy, Johnny, has touched the lives & hearts of so many people. We wish we could have known him too. You have our deepest sympathy

sara hernandez

July 2, 2005

steph:i love u to death!i cant begin to imagine what u r goin through!he was so cool and he was always happy no matter what was going on! he was funny and was always there!we will all miss him very much!if you need ne one to talk to call me!i am here for u all the way!i love u so much!

Lauren Johnson

July 2, 2005

I'm really sorry about the loss. I know that Johnny was a really great kid. He will be loved and missed greatly! Steph, if you need a friend just know that im here for you.

Hannah Zentz

July 2, 2005

To Stephanie and Family: Johnny was an amazing kid so full of life and he loved every minute of it. I am so sorry to hear about your loss. I certainly know how it feels to loose someone so close. My heart goes out to you. Everyone will miss Johnny. He was such a wonderful kid.

Kayley piper

July 2, 2005

hey steph,

i am so sorry about our lose. i just want u to now that i am here when u need some help. i now johnny was a great person and know is in a better place watching over u and he has no more pain he is healed.He is still thinking about u and is with u for ever. RIP johnny. I LOVE U STEPH!

Jacqueline Ruchti

June 30, 2005

Johnny, you were a great friend and cousin. You were undefeatable at air hockey and other games. Thank you for teaching me so much. You were like a big brother. I love you, Johnny. Jackie

Joyce Walker

June 30, 2005

It was a joy for me to have known and worked with Johnny and Stephanie at Porter Lakes. Our hearts were broken when Johnny was diagnosed with his illness, and it is so sad to see such a short life come to its end. I will always have fond memories of your two wonderful children. You have my deepest sympathy, and I wish you much strength with which to face your sorrow.

Kaleigh Mueller

June 30, 2005

i'm sooo sorry to hear about Johnny! i will keep you in my prayers forever and for always....just remember all the great memories with him in soccer and other sports he played...i love you all and i'll keep on praying

Maria Walter

June 30, 2005

Stephanie,

I really wish i got to know your brother. Im sure he was a wonderful kid, and he will always be there watching you and guiding you. Im sorry to hear about your familys loss.



Love,

Maria Walter

zachary nicol

June 30, 2005

Mrs Lachowicz,

I was a student of yours. I was very sorry and upset to hear about the loss of you son. My thoughts are with you and your family.

Sharon Mack

June 29, 2005

Val, John, and Stephanie-I cannot even put into words my deepest sympathies to you all. I wish I could be there to help you through this most difficult time. Johnny was such a strong, brave, and friendly little boy with a beautiful spirit. I remember back when he was 5 years old in my wedding when he willingly kissed my hand for a picture. What a charmer! It still brings a smile to my face after all these years.



Johnny, may you rest peacefully in the presence of God.



Love, Sharon Avery Mack

Aunt Lori Ruchti

June 29, 2005

Johnny, my dear, sweet, nephew. I never knew a little boy could be so carrying and wonderful. The time we spent together will remain special to me forever. Although you never had the chance to play on the Chicago Fire team, I believe Jesus will find you to be a star on his team now. If I ever get three royal flushes in Tripoly, I will know you had something to do with it!!!! Love you always and forever!!!! Aunt Lori Ruchti

Shirley Wickham

June 29, 2005

Johnny, My Beloved Grandson, you live on in my heart in wonderful memories. What a wonderful 12 years we had together. Each time I walk for my health I shall talk with you. Hugs and kisses, Grandma

Jillian Ives

June 29, 2005

Johnny was such a fun patient to take care of. It was with Johnny that Emily and I started the chemo cheer and we still do it. I'm sorry for your loss. Nurse Jillian

Bruce Smith

June 28, 2005

We are so sorry to hear about John.Tyler and I enjoyed his friendship at Indian Guides and Karate class.John will be missed, but always remembered, as a fine young man and inspiration to all.

Kathleen, Jenni and Becki CMH nurses

June 28, 2005

We are so sorry to hear about Johnny. We will never forget playing basketball with all of you at the hospital, as well as his obsession with alcohol wipes and pens! He will be greatly missed by the staff at CMH. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Barry Giles

June 28, 2005

Our family like all the families that knew Johnny, were blessed to have known him. His spirit and smile were an inspiration to us all. We will all be better friends and neighbors for having known him. His spirit was and is a great reflection of his loving parents and sister and we will all be better friends and neighbors for having known them.

As we have all heard many times, Jesus said, “Gather the little children unto me.”

And we know from the song we hear the children sing, “They are precious in his sight.”

Your friends,

Barry, Lisa, Veronica and Garrett Giles

Laurie, Amanda, Jessica Tamburrino

June 28, 2005

My heart goes out to the Lachowicz family. You will always be in our thoughts and prayers. May you somehow find strength to get through this.Your angel will always be with you.

Jillian Eichberger

June 28, 2005

Johnny,

I didn't know you well but i knew your sister. You were a very good person. You are in a better place now.

You'll always be in my thoughts.

Kelli Corak

June 27, 2005

I know what its like to lose someone you love. I lost Nick Idalski. Johnny was a awesome student and a very good athlete. He'll always be remembered and loved.



*My prayers are with you*

Jennifer Eichberger

June 27, 2005

I knew Johnny since kindergarden. I didn't know him that well but we where friends. He was a really good friend and a really good student. If I ever needed help on a homework assignment he would help me. He will be missed by alot of people, friends and family. I bet he would miss us all too. Someday we will all get to see him again up in heaven.I will miss you.



Jennifer

Tammy Runyan

June 27, 2005

Dear Val, John & Stephanie:



I am so very sorry to hear of your loss. Johnny was such a great kid. It hardly seems fair for God to call him home so soon. You will be in my prayers today, tomorrow, and in the days to come.

Donna Gagliardi

June 27, 2005

A POEM FOR THE LACHOWICZ FAMILY



We lost a young boy with a heart of gold,

Worth more to us than wealth untold.

What would we give if we could say,"Hi, Johnny" in the same old way.

To hear his voice and see his smile,

To sit with him and talk awhile.

So you who have a young boy, cherish him with care,

For you'll never know the heartaches till you see his vacant chair.

We have lost, but GOD has gained, the best young boy the world contained.

To have and to love and then to part is the greatest sorrow of our hearts.

Joe Martin

June 27, 2005

Johnny was my best friend and I will never forget him. We had a lot of good times and I will always remember them. No one could have asked for a better friend and I'm sorry to see him go but I know he is in a better place.

Julie Wyant

June 27, 2005

My prayers and sympathy are with you all always.

Tim and Rosemarie Martin

June 27, 2005

Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Johnny was truly a wonderful boy and a great friend to Joe. We have wonderful memories of the boys' friendship and feel blessed to have been a part of his life.

Donna MacPherson-Thompson

June 27, 2005

I am so sorry to hear of your son's passing. A child that age shouldn't have to go through such pain and suffering. I wish you as parents and Bill and Shirley,as grandparents and Marion, and John (Avery)as aunt and uncle peace to come as your own healing begins. May you all rely on each other to get through this.

Dan and Becky Jenks And Family

June 27, 2005

We are thinking of you. May you find peace in your memories. Johnny will live on in ours.

Sharon MacPherson Blankenship

June 27, 2005

My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. I didn't know Johnny but have been a long time friend of family members.

He will always be with you in your heart and soul.

Melissa Wilke

June 27, 2005

I did not know Johnny that well but i really wish i had the chance to hang out with him more often. Johnny will really be missed by friends, Family, Teachers, And every one. Now you are in a place where you can really be happy. Hey i bet this place has a really good soccer team.

Brianna Kieffer

June 27, 2005

I know how it feels to lose someone you love to cancer. It's very hard, and my deepest sympathys are with you. Val, John, Steph,and Johnny you are all in my thoughts and prayers. Rest in Peace Johnny. You will always be remembered.



--Brianna Kieffer

Diane Gutzweiler

June 27, 2005

Johnny was a great kid who got a lot of joy out of life. He seemed to give everything his best shot. When soccer was no longer an option for him, he put his enthusiasm into golf. When I would see him, he was always smiling. He was definately an inspiration to us!

GRANDPA

June 27, 2005

Your gift of 12years from God shall always be in my heart and your smile from Heaven will always be cherished. Love you

Josh Wyant

June 27, 2005

My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Deanna Kostides & Family

June 27, 2005

May the Lord grant your family strength and peace in these most difficult hours. May your Johnny rest in peace in a place where there is no more pain or sorrow. May his memory be eternal. You have our deepest sympathies.

BreAnn Anderson

June 26, 2005

I didn't really know Johnny that well, but from what I did hear from him, he seemed like a great person. I really wish that I could have gotten to know him better before he passed away.



BreAnn Anderson

Valerie Lachowicz

June 26, 2005

Johnny was a gift to us and is now an angel for God.

Cindy, Ed, Branden & Jay Schierholzer

June 26, 2005

We feel hollow ... our feelings and sympathies are beyond words.



We send our love and support.

Melissa Wilke

June 26, 2005

I will really miss johnny he was very nice i did not know him to well but no one should pass away that way it should always be of old age it is really sad that there is no cure for that. But now Johnny you are going to be happy in heaven and see ur friends again some day.



Love, Melissa

Jordan Chester

June 26, 2005

Johnny I will REALLY miss you because at school you were a friend to everybody and you were just so nice that it's hard to believe your gone forever. I will miss you dearly at school Johnny!!



Schoolmate,

Jordan Chester

margaret metzger

June 26, 2005

I was an aide in second grade and Johnny was one of the students in the classroom. He was a very friendly young man and a joy to be around. I am sure that he is in heaven looking down and saying it's okay mom and dad I don't hurt any more.

May God keep in you in his hands and give you comfort in your time of sorrow.

Margaret Metzger

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