John L. Rende Sr.

John L. Rende, Sr.

John L. Rende, Sr., age 88, late of Lockport, passed away peacefully at his residence Friday, December 12, 2014, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Joliet, lived in Lockport since 1955. Retired from Lemont's Citgo Refinery after 38 years of service. He also owned and operated Rende Electric. A very proud United States WWII Veteran; he was a supply Sergeant in the US Army, Honorably Discharged in May, 1946. During his time of service, he received 3 bronze stars (cluster), The American Theatre Ribbon and the European, African and Middle Eastern Theatre Ribbons. He also received 2 overseas Bars, Good Conduct Medal, and the Army of Occupation Medal (Germany). Life member of Lockport VFW post # 5788.

John was a VERY active member of St. Joseph's Church in Lockport, where he ushered over 55 years, and also was active in Holy Name Society and the American Italian Cultural Society in Crest Hill. He was an active supporter of the LTHS Athletic Programs, his grandchildren's numerous arts and sports events. He loved to fish, hunt, watch sports, and do his electrical work. John was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, and dear friend.

Preceded in death by his loving wife of 63 years, Josephine "Jay" P. (Traina) Rende; a grandchild; his parents, Gaetano and Concetta (Loizzo) Rende; and two sisters, Infant Francesca, and Elvida Walker.

Survived by his devoted children, Jo Ann (John) Kohlhagen of New Lenox and John Jr. (Marcia) Rende of Morris; four grandchildren, Zak (Pamela) Kohlhagen, Zoe (Al Martinkus, fianc ) Kohlhagen, Brittany (Darren) McMillin and Ryne (Megan) Rende; two great-granddaughters, Natalie and Alyssa Kohlhagen; a great-grandson, baby McMillin due December 2014; a brother, Joseph (Corrine) Rende of Lockport; and a sister, Frances Pavnica of Joliet; and numerous nieces and nephews also survive.

The Rende family would like to thank Joliet Area Community Hospice and John's caregivers Antanas Buivydas, Wanda Hammerquist and Bonzena Bucko for their exceptional care and support.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to the Rende family, so that they may give to the various organizations that John loved in his name, would be appreciated.

Funeral services will be held, Thursday, December 18, 2014, 9:30 a.m. from the O'NEIL FUNERAL HOME CHAPEL, 1105 E. 9th ST. (159th ST), LOCKPORT to St. Joseph Church, Lockport for Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m. Interment Resurrection Cemetery, Romeoville. Visitation Wednesday December 17, 2014, from 2:00 until 8:00 p.m. Family and friends can sign the online guest book or to attain directions at www.oneilfuneralhome.com.