John O. Walker

John O. Walker, age 87, of Lisle, IL passed peacefully on January 20th, 2026. Loving husband of the late Patricia, nee: Collins; Father of Catherine (Thomas) Bennett, Kimberly (Jack) Chrencik & Jennifer (Stetson) Steele; Grandfather of Emily (Chad) O'Brien, Olivia Bennett, Max & Sam Steele; Son of the late Angelina & Ottis Walker; Cousin of Toni DiPasquale (like a sister) and Uncle of Candace (Brad) Kroese.

John lived a wonderful and full 87 years. He was raised in Cicero alongside his close-knit Italian family. An only child, John grew up in a two-flat with his Grandparents, Parents and Aunt and Uncle that included his cousin Toni, who was more like a sister to him.

John spent his high school years and part of college at St. Procopius Academy, where he boarded and formed lifelong friendships. He was the quarterback of the football team and proudly known as the shortest player on the basketball team.

In 1960, John married the love of his life, Patricia (Patty). Together they raised three daughters Cathy, Kim, and Jennifer, making their home in Glen Ellyn. John was deeply involved in the Jaycees and enjoyed a long banking career that began at Glen Ellyn Savings and concluded at LaSalle.

Family was always John's top priority. Weekly Sunday dinners with extended family, were a cherished tradition, often fitting in visits with both sides of the family in a single day. He loved playing a round of golf at the Glen Ellyn Village Links and was an enthusiastic sports fan, whether watching on television or attending games in person. Annual family vacations to Wisconsin created memories that will be treasured forever. He enjoyed being a father-in-law to Tom, Jack and Stetson.

One of John's greatest joys was being a devoted Grandpa/Pops to Emily, Olivia, Max and Sam. He rarely missed a grandchild's activity, supporting everything from band concerts, plays, baseball and basketball.

John and Patty also enjoyed many happy years as snowbirds in Florida, where he embraced the sun, sand, fishing, golfing, and the joy of making new friends over many shared dinners.

Life eventually brought John full circle back to the campus at Villa St. Benedict. There, he enjoyed poker games, branched out into Wii bowling, and formed many new friendships while reconnecting with old classmates and neighbors.

John will be remembered as a generous and kind man whose love for his family and friends will live on forever.

Visitation from 10:15 AM – 11 AM (time of Mass) on Saturday, January 24, 2026 at Villa St. Benedict, 1920 Maple Ave. Lisle, IL 60532. Lunch will follow there at noon, concluding with a private burial. For more information, contact Leonard Funeral Home of Glen Ellyn, 630-469-0032.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Mercy Home for Boys & Girls www.mercyhome.org.