John Theodore Karnezis

JT thinking about all the smiles you brought us in Champaign, IL. They beat #6 Wisconsin yesterday in your honor. We miss you !

John, what happened?
John was my Trial Advocacy Professor at the John Marshall Law School in 1999, and his course was the first and only time in law school where I could be a barracuda and get away with it. I never even knew I had that side in me until John's course, and I had SO MUCH FUN with it. I LOVED his class, by far THE VERY BEST law school course I ever had. He gave me an A+, which says more about him than me. And to give you a better idea of what that means, my last memory...

I knew John in law school. I just read in the law school magazine that he had passed. I am shocked.
He has a really good and kind soul. His absence must be devastating to your family. I am so sorry.

Sheila Hanley Wanger

To Judge Karnezis and Family,
I recently learned of John's passing and I was truly stunned. I first met John when he was a young ASA and I was assigned to his father's courtroom. John would often stop by to see his dad and watch the courtroom action. He was always eager to learn and ready to assist in any way. I will always remember his engaging personality and wonderful sense of humor. God surely has another angel in heaven and he will watch over all of you. My heartfelt...

To the Karnezis family:

I just learned yesterday of John's sudden passing. Needless to say, I was stunned. John was currently representing me with my case, and yet all I could think of was that it felt as if I had lost a great friend..even though we did not know each other well. He was just that kind of man. I am saddened that I will not have the opportunity to get to know him better. My family offers its prayers to yours and hopes God helps you through this incredibly...

Deepest condolences to Judge and Mrs. Karnezis and to all of John's family. LIke others here, I knew John professionally. While he was in the State's Attorney's Office, in the Gang Prosecutions Unit, I had the great opportunity to work on several cases with him. We learned too that we had several personal connections as is so often the case in this town and in that business. He was as talented an attorney, as sharp an intellect, and as warm a human being as could anyone ask. I am sorry...

Dear friends,
Thank you for writing these lovely notes to our family. I have just read all 21 pages and while I am sure John is in heaven thinking you left something out, I feel that you have all honored my brother and our family with your caring thoughts, prayers and words. Please keep in touch as we would love to hear more stories of our brother John. Thank you. Carie

Dena, we are so sad to hear about your loss. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and the rest of your family. Nichole (Steinmetz) and Todd Rooney.

The Karnezis Family,
I was a former Assistant State's Attorney with John. I will remember John not only as a great attorney but for his passion and caring heart toward his family and friends. His smile and sense of humor will forever be remembered. My deepest sympathy for his family and loved ones. My prayers are with you.