Obituary of John R. Lausch
John “Jack” Lausch passed away at home on Wednesday, January 13, 2021 at the age of 82.
Born on July 24, 1938 in Joliet, Illinois where he was a life-long resident, Jack graduated from the Cathedral of Saint Raymond Grade School and Joliet Township High School. After high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving three years in Okinawa, Japan. After serving his country, he worked for the gas company for 12 years and later earned an associate’s degree in fire science. He spent the next 30 years as a proud member of the Joliet Fire Department. When he wasn’t at “the fire barn,” he also worked as an appliance repair technician for Sears Roebuck & Company, always providing for his family.
Jack was preceded in death by his parents, Tony and Emma (nee Simonich), and his siblings, Richard, Willard “Stew,” Jim, and Carol.
He is survived by his wife, Barbara (nee Fehst) of 53 years, and his 5 children, Amy (Ken) Mihelich, John (Mary), Andy (Saba), Steve, and Jacquie (Kurt) Johansen. He was a very proud grandpa to his 15 precious grandchildren, Jake, Zora, Olivia, Sophia, and Lila Mihelich; Jack, Georgia, and Mia Lausch; Shazia and Zareena Meyn and Nadia and Bibi Lausch; and Charlotte, Luke, and Brock Johansen.
After retiring from his dream job at the fire department, Jack enjoyed a nearly 20-year retirement engaging with family and enjoying his hobbies. A true “jack-of-all-trades,” he could fix anything and always had a project in the works. When his kids needed help with home projects he would report to their homes, toolbox in hand, almost immediately. When he wasn’t tinkering around with projects, Jack loved playing music in the garage. A self-taught musician, Jack was a member of The Too Loud Polka Band and The Polka Massters. Jack was a proud member of the Joliet Croatian Club where he spent many hours playing gigs and socializing. Most of all, Jack and Barb spent countless wonderful hours following and reveling in the activities of their beloved children and grandchildren.
Jack was diagnosed with ALS in 2014. As his illness progressed—and although he essentially lost the ability to enjoy most of these hobbies—he never complained, sulked, or became impatient. True to his nature, he continued to exhibit a positive, peaceful zest for life that was ever-present to anyone who knew him. He truly enjoyed life to the fullest, and his presence enriched the lives of others around him. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him—because to know him was to love him.
Relatives and friends are invited to gather at the Cathedral of St. Raymond, 604 N. Raynor Ave., Joliet, IL on Thursday, January 21, 2021 where a Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 am. Social distancing and capacity restrictions will be followed at church. Interment will follow at Resurrection Cemetery. Visitation will be private.
Jack’s family recognizes that these are difficult times to gather. The family will be planning a summer celebration of Jack’s life at one of his favorite Joliet hot-spots. There will, naturally, be PBR, manhattans, and polka music. Until then, we know he is celebrating in heaven.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in his name can be sent to the ALS Association Greater Chicago Chapter or Joliet Area Community Hospice.
Fred C. Dames Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. For more information, please call (815) 741-5500 or visit his Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com
