Jack Eric Johnson "Whitey"

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Jack "Whitey" Johnson, on November 30, 2024, at the age of 86. Jack passed away peacefully at his home in Manhattan, Illinois, surrounded by his family. He was a proud Chicagoan and lived a life of dedication and service to his community.

Born on May 11, 1938, in Merrill, Wisconsin [Eric & Grace Johnson]. Jack spent 2 years of service in the Army and 33 years with the Chicago Police Department, where he earned the respect and admiration of his colleagues and the community for his unwavering commitment to justice. Following his distinguished career with the CPD, he served another 10 years with the Cook County Sheriff's Department, where he continued to protect and serve with honor.

In addition to his law enforcement career, Jack was an accomplished athlete and played two years of professional baseball with the Washington Senators and the Chicago White Sox. He was inducted into the 16" Softball Hall of Fame. He will also be inducted in 2025 to the Chicago Police Department Softball Hall of Fame, a testament to his passion for the game and extraordinary skill on the field. Whether playing, coaching, watching, or sharing his love of the game with others, Jack found joy in the camaraderie and spirit of competition. He believed in the power of sports to unite and uplift, just as he believed in the power of kindness to change lives.

Jack leaves behind a legacy of compassion, generosity, and unwavering love. A loving father, devoted husband, grandfather, dear friend, and public servant, Jack was a man whose kindness and generosity knew no bounds. Jack always put others first and found ways to give back, especially those in need. His heart was as big as his spirit, and he dedicated much of his life to helping the homeless, offering material support and a sense of dignity and hope to those who needed it most.

A man of great physical and emotional strength, Jack's unwavering strength and courage, even in the most difficult of times, were a testament to the incredible character that defined him.

For 55 years, Jack was a devoted and loving husband, and survived by his wife JoAnne Johnson and the proud, loving father of his children, Julie Johnson (Shannon & Tommy Kawa), Jack (Becky Ray) Johnson, David Lindmark, and George (Jaquette) Lindmark; his two grandchildren, Jack and Aime. He was preceded in death by his parents, Eric and Grace Johnson, and his sister, Judy Jarmusz.

Rest in peace, Dad. You were truly one of a kind, and we will miss you more than words can express.

Swing. Hit. Gone!

Jack wanted his grandson to know him, and he did. They had been best friends for the past 11 1/2 years. Jack loved spending his summers attending every baseball game he could, rain or shine, to watch his grandson, Jack Adler, in uniform on the field. If Jack could give back one last time, in lieu of flowers, in his memory, he would like it to be to his grandson's baseball team to honor his love for the game. All donations are payable to New Lenox Rebels 12U Druktenis.

A celebration of life will be held on Thursday, December 26, 2024, at 12:30PM at Trinity Lutheran Church, 6850 W 159th St, Tinley Park, IL.