John Anzelmo

John Anzelmo passed away peacefully on September 19, 2025, in Sun City West, AZ. Born in Chicago Heights to Peter and Mary Ann (Yana), he shared his childhood with his younger brother Don (Bernadine). After graduating from Bloom High School, he was drafted into the Army. After serving, he attended Northern Illinois University graduating with a Bachelor's in Education, later getting her Master's in Education from Chicago State University. While at college, he met his wife Mary on a rainy, spur-of-the-moment blind date and was married for 65 years. Soon after their marriage, they had 3 wonderful children, Mary, John (Clara), and Cindy. He also has 2 grandchildren, Sara and Joshua. All family members live in AZ.

John loved to teach! He was very knowledgeable about government, history, geo-politics and went on to teach those subjects at Washington Jr High in the Heights. Later he became principal at Gavin Elementary School and then at Grant Elementary School where he retired in 1993. He loved to say that after being in Education for 34 years, he will be survived by 9,000 of his students! He cared for his students and teachers and students all loved him. While Mom took care of the kids, John took on 4 jobs to keep up with the bills and instilled a strong work ethic in his children.

In retirement, John took classes and volunteered at Spring Training facilities in the area, being able to watch the games with a hot dog after work. He enjoyed traveling around the US and Internationally, visiting Egypt, Jordan, Israel and Russia. He loved seeing the historical sites of the countries he always read about.

John loved reading, imparting advice and watching sports. He was fortunate enough to see his favorite teams- the Cubs, Bulls, Bears and Notre Dame win championships! He also loved Chicago style Italian Beef sandwiches and was an avid coin and stamp collector.

John was the family's rock; the provider, bug killer, furniture mover, tire changer, grill master, remote holder, teacher and coach. We never stopped learning from him and can still hear him doling out advice! We miss and love you, Dad! Until we meet again.

There will be a Memorial Service at National Veteran's Memorial Cemetery in AZ in November.

Donations may be made to charities John supported: Make A Wish, AZ; ASCPA; Boys Town, Catholic Education and St Mary's Food Bank, AZ