John Paul Valaitis, 79, of Oswego, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on August 29, 2024. He was born on August 4, 1945, in Hanau, Germany to Casimir and Antoinette Valaitis. John’s service to his country began in the Vietnam War, and he continued to serve his community as a Chicago police officer for 38 years, retiring as a sergeant from Precinct 18 in August 2005. He married Pamela on May 2, 1971, and their life together was filled with love until her passing in July 2015. John had a deep passion for “arboriculture”, often seen trimming trees and leaving a trail of branches behind him. His interests also included antique cars, discovering good “family restaurants”, and playing board games, with Scrabble being his favorite. As Dad, John enjoyed taking his sons fishing and skiing and coaching their youth soccer and basketball teams. As Papa, he enjoyed attending his grandchildren’s school and sporting events and weekends spent together. John loved to travel, particularly enjoying cruises and reconnecting with friends. He made sure to document every precious memory spent with his family, especially his cherished grandchildren. John’s vibrant spirit and dedication to his family will be fondly remembered and greatly missed. John is deeply missed by his sons, Paul (Laura) and Pete (Nicole) Valaitis; grandchildren, Julia, Amelia, William, Emmett and Abigail; his sisters, Terry Lupori, Marie Eidell, Anna Manietta and Aldona Jones; his loving partner Lorie Sturm; and by many adored nieces, nephews and friends. In addition to his beloved wife Pamela, he was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Joe Valaitis. Visitation will be Sunday, September 8, 2024 from 10AM until the memorial service at 12PM at Davenport Family Funeral Home and Crematory, 149 W. Main St. (Lake Cook Rd.), Barrington, IL 60010. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to BrainUp, https://brainup.ngo/.
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3 Sept. 2024-Cubs-Rooftop!
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6 Sept. 2024 Memorial service for Jack McKeone!
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From the CPD Daily bulletin 01 Sept. 2024.
EAP SUPPORT GROUP!
The Professional Counseling Division/ EAP has a Support Group for Spouses and Significant others of sworn department members. The group is run by licensed EAP Clinicians, Ben Stover and Beckie Fischer. This group will provide a safe and confidential place to discuss family and relationships. Space is limited contact Beckie or Ben at 312-743-0378 for meeting times.
CHAPLAIN’S CORNER and EAP!
In this time of turmoil and worry, many of us may have several concerns. Taking care of ourselves and others at this time is more important than ever. Now is a time to keep in touch with friends and family. Using electronic communication such as phone, text, and video chat services can keep us connected. Just because you need to be physically distant doesn’t mean you can’t be emotionally close. EAP is there for you – don’t hesitate to call for more information on staying well and services offered for yourself and your loved ones available 24/7.
EAP – 312-743-0378.
Chaplains Section – 312-746-8458.
Father Dan Brandt – 773-550-2369 dan.brandt@chicagopolice.org.
Chaplain Joseph Jackson – 312-771-6684 joseph.jackson@chicagopolice.org.
Father Chrysanthos (Chris) Kerkeres 708-243-4559 chrysanthosk@aol.com.
Chap. Kimberly Lewis-Davis – 312-771-6638 kimberly.lewisdavis@chicagopolice.org.
Chaplain Robert Montelongo – 773-459-5089 robert.montelongo@chicagopolice.org.
Chaplain Hysni Selenica – 312-771-6692 hysni.selenica@chicagopolice.org.
Rabbi Moshe Wolf – 773-463-4780 moshe.wolf@chicagopolice.org.