John J. Mroz

John J. Mroz, beloved husband of Debbie Mroz nee Maul, cherished father of Jessica (Trent) Miller, Joseph (Marideth Groves) Mroz and Sarah Benedetto, dear grandfather of Cyrus Benedetto, Charlotte Miller, Lila Benedetto, Eliana Mroz and Poppy Mroz, fond brother of the late Louis (Judy) Gale, Ronald (Valerie) Gale, the late Anita (the late Ronald) Kurek and Joanne Kinloch.

From birth, John was a survivor who learned to persevere and make the best of life regardless of what came his way. Born with Tetralogy of Fallot (a congenital heart defect), John underwent several open-heart surgeries and other medical interventions throughout his life. He never let his heart condition stop him from fully living life. He was the "eternal optimist" who shared his positive perspective with family and friends whenever they faced challenges to encourage and support them. John had a quick wit and a lively sense of humor and was able to bring levity when it was most needed.

John met the love of his life, Debbie, when they were still in high school. In the school cafeteria, Debbie asked John to sign a petition and the rest, as they say, was history. John and Debbie were married August 14, 1971, and his love for her never dimmed, but rather grew deeper and stronger through the years. They raised three children together and had five grandchildren. John dedicated his life to Debbie and the family. He was always looking for more ways to spend time together and was certain to show up when anyone was in need. When Debbie faced serious medical issues, John was right by her side, encouraging her, caring for her and loving her. John's kindness extended beyond family. One could easily say that John never knew a stranger and could effortlessly engage others in conversations that made their day better for having interacted with him.

John worked for years in the auto glass industry. He started out as an installer and worked up to management. In 1999, he made a bold career move and earned a certificate in computer programming. He then went on to train staff in the auto glass business on using the computer system.

John had many hobbies that he enjoyed through the years. He loved spending time in nature and loved to hike. Some of his favorite spots were Devil's Lake in Wisconsin and Mt Rainer in Washington. John ran for pleasure, raced competitively, and won medals in several 5k races. He liked to bake, especially cupcakes for family celebrations. John was an artist with multiple talents. From playing music, singing and song writing, to authoring novels as well as drawing and painting, John always expressed his passions in life. Using his gifts to bring happiness to others was what mattered to him most.

John's love and care for family, kindness, and artistry will live on through the many loved ones that he leaves behind.

A Memorial Visitation will be held 3:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at Modell Funeral Home, 7710 S. Cass Avenue, Darien with a memorial service at 6:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the American Heart Association would be appreciated.