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John Michalek Obituary

Michalek, John R. 63 years old of Berwyn and Antioch, IL passed away Monday July 2, 2012 in Lake Villa Twsp., IL. He was born November 28, 1948 in Berwyn, the son of the late Frank and Lydia (Stefl) Michalek. John was an avid reader, and loved his dogs, socializing with friends, and boating on Loon Lake. He graduated from Western Illinois University, Macomb, IL and taught Social Studies at St. Barbara's in Brookfield for several years. John recently celebrated his 35th year of teaching at Nazareth Academy in LaGrange Park, IL where he also coached baseball, basketball, and football. Survivors include his brother, Frank Michalek of Hot Springs, AR; his aunt, Virginia Stefl; cousins, David (Carol) Rench, their children, Rebecca (Matt) Johnson and their family, and Adam (Linda) and their family; Martin (Nancy) Rench, their children Danny (Mindy), Andy (Jessica), and Liz and their families; Kenny (Barb) Rench, their children Molly (Beau) and Chris (Danielle) and their families; Jerry (Judy) Stefl and their children Anna and Kira (Greg) and their families; Judy Stefl and family; and Barbara Michalek and her husband Dr. J. D'Alise; very special best friends, Lou and Deb Kent, and his faithful companion, "Danny". Memorial services will be held at 7PM Friday, July 6, 2012 at the STRANG FUNERAL HOME OF ANTIOCH, 1055 Main St. (Rte. 83) Antioch, IL. Visitation will be from 5PM until service time Friday. INFO 847-395-4000. In lieu of flowers, those desiring may make contributions to Faith Community Church, 6825 W. 40th St., Stickney, IL 60402 or the American Heart Association, in his memory. Please sign the online guest book at www.strangfh.com. A memorial service will also be held at 7PM Tuesday, July 10, 2012 at Congregation of St. Joseph Chapel, 1515 W. Ogden Ave., LaGrange Park, IL.

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

Published by News Sun from Jul. 4 to Jul. 10, 2012.

Memories and Condolences
for John Michalek

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Michelle Guy

July 13, 2012

I was so sad to hear about the loss of THE BEST teacher I have ever had. As part of the class of '92, I was lucky enough to have him during three years at Naz. To this day I still tell stories of the teacher that the most influential that I was blessed to learn from. He made such an impact on all those who were fortunate enough to have him as our teacher. I know his legacy will live on through each of us as he helped formed who we all are today... To his family and friends I am so so sorry for your loss and know that he was truly loved by those he spent his time teaching.

Roy & Don Miller

July 12, 2012

We're very sory to hear of John's passing.To all the Michalak, Stefl & Rench family members we send our sinsere sympathy.

Tracy

July 12, 2012

Mr. Mike was an amazing man who lit up a room when he walked in. His endless stories in the classroom made learning so much fun and easy to relate to. I will forever remember you saying "Jesus loves you and Mr. Mike does too". May you rest in peace. You were such an inspiration to me and so many others. Whenever your name is brought up I can not help but smile. Heaven is a lucky place Mr. Mike. I miss you.

Rich Mazur

July 10, 2012

To the Michalek,Rench&Stefl families- My deepest sympathy on the loss of John,who was a terrific fun loving& caring guy. I have many fond memories of John going back to our softball playing days in the 1970's in Berwyn,also the many softball tourneys he invited me to play in at Furlan's Dugout Park in Trevor WI. Also at the 14in tourney in Geneva,IL. in which John starred at 3rd base. Many good times with John at Loon Lk. He was a good man and will be missed by all. Rest in Peace buddy.

July 10, 2012

Frank, so sorry for your loss. Sounds like John was very well liked. God bless.
Lynne Hesbol Eleveld

Philip Dalton

July 9, 2012

Mr Mike was a great teacher who inspired me to study the humanities. His loss is a tremendous one for the Nazareth community.

Bill Kania

July 9, 2012

With deepest sympathy to the family and friends of John.

Rebecca Forrer Peel

July 9, 2012

Unforgettable...a gifted teacher and one who helped create cherished memories of high school at Naz. You will be missed Mr. Mike.

Chris Kurinec

July 9, 2012

John you are a man of my past on Loon Lake growing up, the gang on Lake Shore Drive hanging at the beach, you will be missed God Bless

July 8, 2012

One of the greats. So sad to hear about the loss. Wish I could listen to one of his awesome stories that made class so fun now. Thanks Mr. Mike.

July 8, 2012

Mr. Mike was not only a wonderful teacher, coach and mentor, but he was a fun guy who made a huge difference in many of the Naz students lives!!! He will be missed so much!!

Mary Feeney

July 8, 2012

Frank and Family,
John was a great fun loving guy! From teaching at St. Barb's, to softball with the Garv Inn guys and his 35 year career at Nazareth Academy. Many fond memories of John will put a smile on my face. My condolences to you. I know John will be truly missed.

Donna Prinz (Soucek) and Lorraine Soucek

July 8, 2012

Dear Michalek, Stefl, and Rench Families - Our deepest sympathy on the passing of John. We had a lot of fun times at Loon Lake.

American Heart Association

July 6, 2012

May your memories of the wonderful times you shared with your loved one comfort you and your family, today and always.

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Memorial Events
for John Michalek

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

Strang Funeral Home of Antioch

1055 Main St., Antioch, IL 60002

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