John Kavadas Obituary
John Kavadas, of Elgin and formerly of Roselle, Illinois, passed away on January 23, 2026, after a long and courageous battle with dementia. He was surrounded by his beloved wife and daughters.
John was born on September 20, 1947, in Gary, Indiana, to the late Eftihios and Victoria Kavadas. He attended Horace Mann High School, where he proudly lettered in football. John went on to attend Loyola University, where he participated in the ROTC program and was a devoted member of the Alpha Delta Gamma fraternity, truly embodying what it meant to be a brother. He graduated with a degree in Accounting.
Following college, John served in the United States Army and was stationed in Greece as a First Lieutenant. After completing his military service, he relocated to Chicago, where he spent his entire professional career as an accountant. He retired from the law firm of Marshall, Gerstein & Borun.
John is survived by his wife of 48 years, Nancy (née Brennen); his daughters, Jennifer (Paul) Sylvia and Pamela (David) Pater; and his cherished grandchildren, Jackson and Patrick Sylvia, and Madelyn, Jordyn, and Cameron Pater, to whom he was a proud and loving “Papou.” He is also survived by his sisters, Christine Kavadas, Pauline (Mark) Dranger, and Maria (Eric) Nilsen, as well as many nieces and nephews.
John truly cherished his friendships. Friendship meant everything to him, and he built deep, lasting bonds through shared laughter, stories, and countless adventures—especially with his cousin Tom. He was happiest when surrounded by those he loved, creating memories that will be treasured forever.
John loved traveling with his family, but the greatest joy of his life was his grandchildren. He rarely missed a school event, game, or performance and took immense pride in each of them.
John had a genuine interest in others and was always ready to lend a helping hand. He will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know and love him.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
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