John R. "Lefty" Grehn

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of John "Lefty" Grehn, who was went to eternal rest on January 1, 2026. Born on September 5, 1964, John lived a remarkable life characterized by kindness, humor, and unwavering reliability.
John leaves behind loving family and friends that cherished his company and who will sorely miss his warm, humorous nature. He is survived by his sibling, Karen Rager née Grehn and her partner Todd Krsnak, his niece, Nikki Oresko and her husband Mark Oresko, and niece Kendra Rager. He is survived also by his found family, Ryan Palermo-Varner, Jesse Palermo-Varner, Kelly Dwyer, John Palermo, Tyler Palermo, and Samantha Palermo and his beloved dog Einstein.
He was predeceased in death by his father, Donald Grehn, and his mother, Marijane Grehn, née Dlouhy.
During childhood, John spent many summers with family in Wisconsin at Fence Lake, boating, skiing, fishing and hunting. They also took many camping trips.
John was a proud alumnus of William Howard Taft high school in Chicago, IL, graduating in 1982.
He had a rich taste in music with a special fondness for the legendary Johnny Cash. John was a passionate duck hunter, fisherman, and adored his many pet dogs he had throughout his life. His sentimental nature was most evident in the deep love he harboured for his pets, the life stories he often told, and the pictures and mementoes he kept with him.
John was an extraordinary individual who lived his life want to help others. His remarkable journey included following in his father and uncle's footsteps by serving as a Chicago police officer. John also spent time working at sign manufacturer Plasticade, and becoming a successful entrepreneur by owning his own car detailing business. He believed in lending a helping hand to those in need, spreading kindness, and maintaining a cheerful ambiance with jokes and laughter. His legacy of generosity, warmth, and joy will forever resonate in the hearts of the many people he touched.
As we mourn the loss of Lefty, we also celebrate a life beautifully lived, a life that touched so many with genuineness, humor, and love. His memory will continue to encourage us to be better individuals, to always help out others, and to ensure that jokes and laughs are always plentiful and often.
Funeral services celebrating his life will be held on Saturday, January 24, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. in the Denbow-Gasche Funeral Home with Celebrant Trudy Bates presiding. The services will be livestreamed via the funeral home's Facebook page. Family and friends, may visit one hour prior to the service from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home.
For those who may not be able to attend, online condolences may be shared on the funeral home's website at denbowfh.com.
Denbow-Gasche Funeral Home & Crematory have been entrusted to handle the arrangements.