John Court Obituary

My Bro

Looking through old e-mails made me realize how much we shared and how intertwined our lives were. I also realized the direction we would be heading. And now that is not available to me. Who can I share this with? Who had our history and our genetics. Who could make me laugh uncontrollably and who could make you laugh the same way. I know time is supposed to heal but it really has not. Yes, somedays are so busy that you get lost in other thoughts. Unfortunately, the same gnawing feeling returns once again. All I have is pictures to look at.........and then grow immensely sad. This was not supposed to happen. The men in our family are now gone and my clock is ticking. I don't like being here without you. God, if we could do it over. None of should have ever gone our separate ways. We should have integrated our lives more closely. Family should be first. Sad, very sad. You cannot capture lost moments. The years ago by and opportunities are lost.

I miss you my brother. I feel very, very sad. Life will not be the same. Who do I talk to? No one shares our common interests.

Your garage has lost its vitality and energy. Visits to your house are so sad.Julie and Chris do their best but the one who kept it together is not there. We had a memorial for you and a Esophageal Awareness theme. I wish I did not have to attend. I want you back.

Watching pictures of you reminded how special you were. A little wild but never evil. A great father, husband, and brother.

I drive your van now. I do it to feel connected you but I rather see your smiling face pulling into my driveway. I'd say "whats up", you say "Nuttin"

South side roots ran deep. A working guy who loved his family and was loved by many. Will I ever feel right? I really don't think so.

I love you my brother. So very much.

I look at your picture often and then I really, really, feel sad.

Very sad. Funny, while I write this a huge storm started. Is that you telling me not to worry? Maybe chewing me out? Who knows. Johnny Court, I miss you deeply.

All my love,

Your brother,

Jim Court

My "baby" brother, John, would have been 56 on April 21st this year. Sadly, he died on May 7, 2009, shortly after his "double nickels" birthday. Almost a year has passed and the pain somehow gets stronger instead of lessening. I feel guilt that I lived so far away, after moving away from Illinois after my marriage in 1987. But then I remember the many talks we had on the phone, when he was driving, while I was at work or at home, or during one of the many family gatherings when the phone was passed so that I could talk to as many as possible. I have kept and still read John's emails and marvel that he knew, so long ago, the sad direction this country is taking. He was visionary. He was so terribly smart. He was beloved by all, and we all still miss him. He is always in my thoughts, almost every day. His passing presses on me so heavily. I find myself wishing that I could go back in time and do things differently. I would have tried to get to Chicago more. I would have insisted that he and Julie get in the car, or on a plane, and visit me and Phil in Colorado and, later, in California. But I know that John would also have told me, "Honey, don't worry... be happy." That was John, always looking for the brightness even when things seemed dark. I miss you, "honey."
Your loving sister, "Suds"

I haven't been on here for a very long time. It's so sad. I see Jim's entries and know this site is helping him get through it. We all know we will NEVER get over losing you, especially so young. I still can see the twinkle in your eyes and hear your laugh. Greetings of "honey, honey..." I miss you more each passing day. I think of you singing "When I go to sleep, I never count sheep..." or calling me at working pretending to be an irate customer, only to dissolve into laughter when I fell for it. Life goes on, but a big part is missing. I will miss you forever, but know I will be reunited with you someday, along with Dad and other lost loved ones. Love, aways, your sister and friend, Laurie.

Our family met yesterday at Home Run Inn in Bolingbrook. We talked about you and the memories of all that we shared with you. Sometimes I cannot stand the thought of not ever talking to you again. It seems cruel and I hurt so much. Our family is incomplete and I feel your absence so much. Looking through old pictures is difficult. How can a person be here one moment and permanently gone the next? I have struggled so much this summer. Will things ever be the same? I don't think so. I have good days but i many bad ones. I cannot forget allof the history we shared . I am listening to a CD right now. Phil Collins, "Against all Odds" is playing. Parts of reflect my feelings and thoughts. I miss the music, the festivals and fairs. The trips we took. Court Realty. John, I promise you I will resurrect this is some fashion. For you, for me. I lost my best friend and suffer terribly. I see your smile and hear your voice. I think of you all of the time. I am not sure but just maybe, you know this. Mom draws strenght from her convictions and slowly but surely I feel drawn in that direction. It is time for bed and I must go so with tears in my eyes I say goodnight.

Your Bro,

Jim

Looking through old e-mails I discovered so many conversations and connections between us. We shared so much and in the future we were to share much more. And then, suddenly, it disappeared and I cannot get over it. I think of you constantly. Some say that life goes on, and yes it does. It just does not go on in the same way. There is a big whole in my heart and I have lost a very important part of my self. No one shared so many of my interests and history. So many memories. For the future, so many possibilities. People deal with losses in many different ways. Some seem to not to want to talk about it. I cannot be this way. You will never be forgotten by me for as long as I live. I love you my Brother and wish you were here. Life is not the same. You were very much the heart and soul of our family. I felt so connected to you. It hurts not having you around. I miss you so much. I was never closer to anyone. I feel lost. I will talk to you soon.
All my love,

Your Brother,

Jim

Johnny Court, my brother, why can't I get over this loss? I think about you so often. I see pictures of us together and it creates so many memories. We were a team. The pitcher and the catcher, the quarterback and the receiver. I have no one to throw to anymore. The game is over. I want to play but I can't do it anymore. I feel washed out. My enthusiam is gone. This is terrible. We were on the brink of many new beginnings and now I will never know. It is true, sometimes you made me so mad. You could be a grouch. I did not understand. Later, I came to realize that your allergy created tremendous pressures upon you. Maybe I was the dog you could kick. Like a puppy, I would come crawling back. Nothing was too big to separate us. We both knew it. I loved you (and still do) in ways you might have never fully realized. Mom knew it. We shared so many memories and had so much in common. Yet we were different. I am the big picture guy, scattered in a million directions. I am willing to risk. You were the detail guy, so focused. A little cautious. That can be good. I don't think you ever fully realized what a powerful combination this could be. Sometimes I think you thought I was competing with you. Never. You were my equal, maybe even better. Who cared. My ADHD brain would throw out ideas in a rapid fire way. I think you perceived it as talking down to you. That was never the case. I stood in awe of many of the things you accomplished and the wonderful life that you created with your wonderful wife. A nice home, beautiful yard, and your proud garage. The family gathering place. We now go to visit and see Julie. It rips me up. I feel you everywhere. Your old horseshoe pits look pretty sad. I remember so many laughter filled games behind the garage. I could see you standing there the other day. That look you would give. The competitive spirit. You were good and you knew it. You should have never left us. I know that was not your intention. You left such a void in so many peoples lives. This summer is very sad, very cloudy, and very cold. It seems like it should be that way. The sunshine of the family is gone. No more chicken wings, no more music, no laughter, no hurried activity. It is very sad. Your son Chris is doing a great job of trying to keep the house together. You would be proud of him. I feel bad for Julie. She tries to be ok but she looks very sad. I understand. I am listening to your oldies CD right now. Tears stream down my cheeks. I hate this. All the writing in the world will never express the loss I feel everyday. I can't stand this hurt. There is a hole in my soul that nothing can replace. No one in this world reflected everything that I enjoy, vlaue and care about. Ony you, my brother. Only you. I am thinking about finally getting my real estate license. Can you imagine us? Court Realty ! What a team. How can I do it alone? I will try but it seems second rate. I was looking forward to such a goodtime and financial success. Life can never be the same. People think that I should not dwell on this. I try not to but there so many memories of you. I constantly envision you, your manner of talking and walking, the looks you would give me, the smirk on your face. You were pretty animated and quite mischevious. Filled with energy and a passion for life. Now its gone and I feel so bad. Perhaps this writing does help. I hope someone reads it. i want them to know how much you meant to others.You will not be forgotten, I will make sure of that. "In memory of my brother, John Robert Court" I love you.

Your brother,

Jim Court

I miss you my brother. In many ways, every day. Your absence and the loss I feel is profound. I think of you often. I am sad often. I wish you were here. The future without you does not seem right. I listen to your music and I go back in time to all the good memories and to how the music so reflects your essence and personality, as it does mine. I am struggling with this and sometimes am not doing well. The future held so many promises. Places to go, people to see, business to create. It doesn't seem right without you. I just received a notice that I have to renew my CDL license. For what? The trips we never took and the trips we talked about. It won't happen and without you it could never be the same. This summer seems so sad. Constantly filled with cloudy days. Somehow it seems appropriate. My world has changed. I often feel lost. I laugh, sometimes I sound like I am talking to a long lost lover. You were my brother, my only one. What a special bond. One that cannot be replaced. All of our history, Our shared genetics. Memories of times gone by. I don't know if you ever fully comprehended how much you meant to me. Mom did, perhaps others. Hopefully you did but were just afraid to show it. Who cares, hopefully you know it now. I feel like one half of the battery is disconnected. Nothing works right. I need a jump start. I wonder in confusion and feel empty. Yes, I have good moments but I have many bad ones.
I sense your personality every day. I see you in my minds eye. You are always in my thoughts but you cannot respond. Sometimes I pretend that you do. It makes me feel better, at least for a while. people need to evaluate their priorities. Visit more, reach out more, spend more time together. Make the time. Someday you won't be able to. Don't wait. Love each other and do not sweat the small stuff, My life has been immeasurably changed. I miss you John. So do many others.

All my love,

Your brother Jim

I walk in such deep sorrow. I listen to your music and realize it was my music. Your interests were my interests. This is not about narcissism, it is about commonality that could only be born of history and genetics. No human being ever resonated with me like you did. No one. I may have shared my life with others but there was still that separateness. Whether is be music, politics, and the myriad of things we shared in common, no one totally shared these things. No one shared a childhood and family. Only you did my brother. I think of you so often and miss you so much. I feel alone and abandoned. No, it was not intentional, but the impact is the same. This happened to suddenly and unexpectedly.

I realize that I am different from many others. I seek meaning and purpose. Depth matters, small talk means little to me. Oh, I can do it, but it often feels shallow. I want to get together with others and really share the deepest feelings but it does not seem to happen. Empty moments are filled with trivia that does nothing to unburden my grief. I often leave feeling worse than when I arrived. it is no ones fault. Other people have different styles. Because of this I seem so very stuck. Every day feels empty. Yes, there are moments of good but underneath it all is the lurking weight of sadness and loss. Nothing or no one can replace this loss. No one will ever have our history. I am getting older. There is not enough time to build this history and obviously the genetic commonality cannot happen.

I look around your garage and your spirit overwhelms me. The physical manifestation of a living person. A monument to who your were. A reflection of your essence. I see a room filled with computers and real estate material. You were so capable. The future held so much promise. Now all I can do is to mourn and try to understand and I am failing. Hopefully time will lesson my pain.I doubt it. I don't know what to do. I want to honor your memory in a meaningful way. Somehow, I will do it. I must. For you and for me. The summer finally seems here and the things we were supposed to do cannot happen. I do not want to do them alone and without you it cannot be the same. They will not happen. I have no one to talk to about world events and politics, no one to laugh with the way we did.

I saw your left hand guitar that you finally got because of Chris. You were determined to play it. It was a lifelong dream. After you were diagnosed with cancer you determined that you would never let anything stop you from living your dreams. I know you would have mastered this instrument. You vowed to travel more and we talked of a trip out west. I want to go but my co-pilot is gone. Just like our trip to Delavan. I remember the huge rainstorm and zero visibility. I knew we would make it. We were both professional drivers. We both had the natural talent for anticipating what others would do. Boy Scouts at heart. Always prepared. Always. Yet, I am not prepared for your loss and nothing I seem to do helps me get over this. Here I am, first thing Monday morning, listening to the CD's of your "favorites" that Chris copied for me. God bless him. Every song is good, every song is one I would have recorded. 100 %. Who else could do this but you. So I start this day once again feeling lost. I have much to do and I find it hard to have enthusiasm. I will get the work done. That is my nature. That was your nature. Always responsible. Always sacrificing for others, always looking out for others. I guess I should get started on this day but Johnny, I feel such a deep loss. I miss you terribly. The phone sits unused, I used to call you right about now. I could then start my day. The connection was made. Now it lost. So am I.

I love you,

Your brother, Jim

PS. The last song that played is

"Can't get to losing you "
I think it is Andy Williams.
Exactly how I feel.

My brother,

So many plans of things we were going to do. This reality no longer exists. I find it hard to comprehend. Right now the radio is on. The Beatles song, "In my life" is playing. I feel terrible, truly terrible. You were the best real friend I ever had. Others came and went. Some shared aspects of my personality. No one reflected me like you did. Connected on the deepest of levels. So much history but never enough time spent together. Quite a bit, but never enough. How do I go forward when so much of the future was connected to you. Some might say I'm a dreamer but I know better. Cancer had profoundly brought out the best in my Brother. He was always great but now he was even better. Any small sibling rivalry was no longer an issue. We were a team. We were family. I have many pathways to walk. Some I would blaze, some you would take the lead. I am not sure how to travel this path alone. It seems like such a lonely journey. I don't know the way. There is no one to cover my back. It can never be the same. Who's laughter made me hysterical? You, and you alone. We would start laughing and all of sudden we were out of control. My head would ache yet I was so happy. Only you John, only you. Then there was politics. We both had a passion that others could not or would not understand. So we talked, and talked, and talked some more. Time passed quickly. I wish I could recapture it. God, do I. Then there was your music or should I say my music. It was hard to tell the difference. We related on the deepest levels. We are both somewhat intense people. We lived passionately. Sometimes we would even get mad. Rambo, meet Rambo. Yet that is far as it would go. I could never hurt you nor could you ever hurt me. We would cool off (this didn't happen often) and forget that anything happened. Real estate, trucks, our garage, vans.
The memories are good yet the memories have me lost.I walk in a daze. Will I ever recover. They say I will but I feel such a heaviness and a void in my soul. I need you back.
I do not want to accept was is. I have always been one who thinks of what might be. This is my personality. It has become my burden.

Sunday is fathers Day. I am sure it is going to be extremely difficult for Julie, Jacke, and Chris. They miss you immensely. They hurt deeply. I am sure they are also lost. Nothing will be the same.Julie tells me that you would be proud of Chris. He has really stepped up and tried to cover for you. Father like son. God Bless him. Hats off to Maynard G. You really were smart when you married Julie. She is wonderful. I will always love her for the life she shared with you. John and Julie. So good for each other. You were so proud to be married to her. I didn't disagree. Your sister Laurie is lost. She feels so sad. Mom grieves deeply in her own private way.
your friends sense a deep loss that cannot be replaced. Imelda tries to keep me together. She knows how much I hurt. This is gotten to be a saturday ritual. Sit down in front of the computer, put some music on, and then think of you. I think of you often. My life is not right. Yet I try to not lose it, to go forward. It seems impossible. I have lost such a big part of my life. The future without you cannot be the same. No one can replace you and no one shares our history and genetics. I love my sisters but they do not share my interests. They will never talk about what we did or think about doing business together. There relationship with you was different. It does not mean they did not love as deeply, just differently. I am very sad right now. I may be repeating myself. The song plays but the record feels stuck, the song does not move forward, nor does it finish. This is how I feel. Stuck, forever stuck.
I love you my brother, I truly love you.

Jim Court
Elmhurst, Illinois
[email protected]

I met John twelve years ago, when I started dating his brother Jim. I am somewhat shy by nature but John made me feel very comfortable. Not only did he embrace me, he welcomed my two children into his family. He showed so much genuine concern and care towards us that we felt like we had been part of the family for many years. Along the way he provided much wisdom about raising teenagers to Jim and myself. When John was concerned about any member of his family he would always make that special phone call to provide support and help with any situation anyone was experiencing. I feel truly blessed to have known John and be a part of his family. I always knew that John would be there if we needed him. My heart is aching, as are my childrens and Jim. We lost John much too soon. He touched many lives. I will always remember him as a strong family man with a compassionate and caring spirit. He will be sadly missed.

Imelda, Kevin, Genna

John,

We were blessed today. The video "Stand by me" that meant so much to you was published today in the Chicago Tribune. I cannot thank the author of this article, Ted Gregory, enough. Everyone in the family is moved by this. You will never be forgotten John. Your spirit is my spirit. We were a little different yet so much alike. You were probably more fun. Sometimes I am so serious but not always. I think of you constantly. I talk to you quietly. I sense your spirit. No, I am not delusional. I am too emotionally healthy for that but I admit that I hurt very much. They say time heals. I am not sure. It is to early to know. I doubt the hurt will ever truly go away,Perhaps it might be buried in the hustle of the moment but it seems ever present. I visualize you often. Your personality was to strong and spirited. How can I forget. Others seem to be worried about me. I appreciate it. Sometimes I am worried about me. Don't worry, I will get through this. I will cry often, somedays will feel unbearable but I have much responsility to others. I know you would do likewise. You live deeply within me. My whole life feels turned upside down. We had so much to accomplish and so many moments to be shared. Your absence is so difficult. Sometimes I reach for the phone and start dialing you. The realization that the phone call will go unanswered overwhelms me. We all grieve differently. I am not doing a good job of it. I guess every human takes much for granted. Sometimes I did. Sometimes you did. After your cancer we both had a huge wakeup call. It would never happen again. We promised each other. I will forever remember you standing in my driveway, asking me if I wanted to go fishing. It was late in the day. I promised I would go later in the week. A moment that would never arrive. I would give anything to go fishing with you now. Sure we would kid each other who would catch the first fish. Remember the time I caught the first fish by Mom's. Pretty good size. I acted so confident. It was all luck and you knew it. We chuckled. You said something about throwing me in the water. Another laugh although I would not put it past you.

I have been looking through pictures lately. Moments caught in time and space. Two brothers. The older brother always looking out for the younger brother, maybe when he did not always need it. My intentions were good. I loved you. I was not superior. Your advice was also good. Some of it has changed the way I do things and my world view. John, I could go on forever with this. I will talk to you many times in the future, I will cry many tears. You were my best friend. I will miss you so much, Until later.

Your brother, Jim

A busy day, caught up in distractions, I am ok for the most part. Memories occur and I am saddened, but work absorbs my thoughts for now. After a very busy day I sat down at the computer. For some reason the Moody Blues song "My Brother" comes to mind. So I type it into youtube. The song starts. The next thing I know I am again crying, living the pain of my brothers loss all over again. This is surreal. The past is lost to a future than can never be. Possibilites that could have been and would have been. Lost. Memories so vivid that they are real. John is talking to me yet I know it is all just memories. His animated yet serious self that I loved so much is gone. The other day I sat in his proudly appointed garage. He was so proud. Neat, clean, with a clubhouse feel. How proudly he showed me several things he had done. Very clever. I felt his spirit< I smiled and then I cried........and cried...and cried. I am sixty years old and am a strong person generally. Not lately. I am a very lost, confused, and hurting individual. My little brother (which I say with deep respect) does not answer my calls, nor does he call me. The other day, in a moment of need about something, started to dial him as I had done with such frequency. It was automatic. I then realized the call would go unanswered. The brotherly advice would not be forthcoming. No one else could talk to me the way he did. He understood. He kept me grounded. My anchor is gone and now I feel adrift. Johnny Court. Spunky to the "max'. A genetic characteristic I guess. Passionate and sometimes intense. And proud of it. We loved our music, a game of horseshoes (he was better than I was, I justed pretended not to know better) The grill, a dip in the perfect pool. Later people sat around the fire. The warm glow that was cast upon everyones face. I should have stayed longer. That was Lauries and Bills job and they did it well. The "Wilburys" as I affectionately call them. My poor sister. She also is having such a hard time of it. Because of age proximity they spent so many youthful moments together. Buying music and singing. They still did it. I will never forget the time Johns son, Christopher, was being ignored. It's a long and funny story but they were like two defenders of the faith and each other. They remind me of each other in so many ways. I feel her pain. I think she senses mine. Part of us is gone and we cannot recapture it. What are we going to do? I guess hope and pray that time might lessen our grief. For some reason that does not seem possible.

It is time for bed, I am tired. My tears will not stop. So for tonight my brother, I just want to once again say how much I love you and I want you here.I will try to be strong. Somedays I will succeed but bear with me. Somedays I just don't know how to deal with it. John, would you do me a favor? Pray for me, I need it.

All my love,

Your brother, Jim

[email protected]

John and I miss you so much. You are the best brotherlaw anyone could ask for. Anytime we needed help with the computer you were there for us..When John was in the hospital you went and visited him even though you were not feeling well youself. You and Julie came and sat with me while i had the surgery done, again you were not feeling well but you came and gave me support. I cannot explain how much we will miss you. John please help Julie and Chris and Jackie get through this...You will always be in my thoughts and in my heart.Your father and my mom and dad are with you and taking care of you. Going out to dinner on saturdays will never be the same without you...We Love you

Time passes, but the hurt will not go away.
Nor do I want it to. Suffer I must. I would have it no other way. I am not a martyr, nor am I seeking pity. I want John back. I suffer because I know it cannot happen. The future held so much promise. So much we were to accomplish. I do not want to carry the load alone. You were the other half of me. You possessed what I lacked. Together we would be a whole. Complete. I am now half gone. The other half is not contained within me. I cannot become what you were. We are brothers. I am the older, you the younger. I never felt superior to you. If fact I was humbled by the level of depth that you brought to any subject that intrigued you. I am the big picture person. You took care of the details. Sometime I envied you. You did it all right. A beautiful wife with a love that endured. Rock solid. Two wonderful children. A stable lifestyle with a house that you crafted as a place of family gatherings. Johns "ranch". So many fun filled times. Who would show up next. "John's Garage". Who would know that the wild and crazy teenager would become a model citizen, a great father, and such a deeply loving husband. God, did he love his wife. He worshipped her. Julie. There could never be anyone like her. I am so thankful for her. She helped create such a wonderful life for my brother. She also gave him two children that he was so proud of. Yes, he faced the difficulties of parenthood and at times was frustrated. The teenage brain can be vexing. Yet, there was never a doubt of his love for his children. As Michael Court and others said, he was truly a "great man". His values and character ran deep. These are not the artificial words sometimes heaped upon those who had recently passed away. What everybody in this guest book has stated are true. People have struggled to convey what seems to be inadequate thoughts about the depth of their love for John. John contained energy and spunk that others could feed off of. Who did not enjoy the trip to John's. His perfect house that he and Julie created. House, home, and family. This was everything to Julie & John. We all feel a tremendous loss. How do we deal with this loss. Truthfully, most of can't. A big part of our life is gone and cannot be replaced. The best we can expect is to really examine our lives, learn every lesson we can from this, realize that life is short, and cherish those things that really matter. We can take nothing for granted and must truly appreciate those we love. Hopefully we draw closer. Family means so much to me. I am sure it does for you. Time lost can never be recovered. Cherish moments spent together. Build memories of times spent together. Support each other. Look out for each other.

I cry often and hurt immensely. I feel half dead. I am not alone. I would not expect to feel any other way. John meant so much. I can't bring him back and somehow I find it impossible to get over this fact. I want the future that was to be. I feel empty, so damn empty. So hurt.So lost. My only brother, gone. The person who shared so many interests with me. So many conversations. Endless e-mails about those things that mattered to both of us. We were the quarterback and the receiver. Alternating in the positions. I now have no one to throw to. I run forever but the ball doesn't come. I feel like the game is over yet I still expect to play, but I cannot. Johnny Court, you were so important to me. You cannot be replaced. I feel like half of a man. I walk around empty. I talk to you often. I hope you hear. I seek your advice. I think you give it to me. It was always good and well intended. You always cared deeply. Such a sentimental one you are. Me too. Your music was my music. We resonated at the same wavelenght. Otheres mean much to me but no one met me at the deepest places contained within myself. Only you. JimmyJohn. It will always remain that way for me. I promise to be with you often. You may have left me temporarily. I hope to one day join you. I will live a life that would make you proud. I don't know if I can measure up. You set such a high standard. I promise to look out for those you loved. We are all hurting. You are that important to us. I will talk to you soon. Please be there for me like you always were. I love you.

Your eternal brother.

Jim

Great men, don't think of themselves as great, humility is just one of the signs of greatness. Great men don't think of the things they do as worthy of aknowledgement but rather they do them because they know the things they do will help those they love. John Court was a great man.

Those of us who knew John should have little need for condolences. We were the lucky ones, we knew a great man, a true human spirit. The people who merit the most condolence are those who did not know John, those who never knew the joy of his laughter, his expression filled looks, the love that he gave so freely and easily. Those are the people to feel sorry for, those are the people who have truly lost something. They have lost the chance to know a great man. Those of us who knew him, though we will all miss him dearly, can be conspiritorial in our joy of having known him. We have the private, insiders elation of sharing the secret that was to have been touched by a tremendous man.

I could write about times past, images I remember, memories of time spent with him, but I can't seem to formulate the thoughts correctly.

I miss him now and I will miss him forever, but I am grateful to have been able to know him at all, and, I am a better man for having known him.

Goodbye John, you were far more than an uncle to me. I love you.

Its been hard for me to write something on here because one short paragraph cannot sum up the life of an extraordinary man. He meant so many things to so many people and there is no way anyone can fill his shoes... I hate the fact that I was off in Arizona for the past 4 years living my life away from my family, which is one of the reasons I decided to move home. I have a lot of memories of summer bbq's with the fam. I used to speak to my mom on the phone and they were always over at Uncle Johns playin bags while Uncle John manned the grill. I missed so many things being gone, Jackies baby shower, BBQ's, and just the plain old fact of getting to know my family better. I was so looking forward to having the time this summer to do that. But now a summer bbq will never be the same, we can all get together and remember the great times we had with him and the laughs we shared but in reality it will never be the same. I can only hope that we carry on the traditions we've created as a family, as much as a family man as Uncle John was, I couldn't imagine he would want anything different. No matter what happens we have to remember that he has never truely left us, he will always remain in our hearts and in our memories. I can't even express to Aunt Julie, Chris or Jackie how truely saddened I am for them. I cannot possibly imagine what they are going through but hope that if they ever needed anything I'm just a phone call away...

I love you Uncle John. I will see you again one day and until then will be there for your family and make sure your grandchildren are raised knowing what a great man you were. Please keep an eye on everyone, guide us in the right direction.

John Court was technically my brother-in-law but emotionally he was my brother. He was everything good that everyone has said about him and more. To have a brother and a friend all in one person is more than anyone could ask for and yet I had it. Laurie and I looked forward to our outings with John and Julie. Our meetings were a place where every day stress was left behind. John was always sensitive to other peoples needs and helped whenever he could. There were never any strings attached, it was done out of pure love. Some day we hope the joyful memories of him will start to fill the empty hole of grief in our hearts. Tears of grief will start to be replaced by tears of fondness. His companionship is forever gone but his memories will will always continue to warm our hearts.

I don’t know what my earliest memory of Uncle Johnny is. I remember him cracking open walnuts at Christmas at my parents’ old house on Elm, possibly before Chris was born. I remember him watching a Bears game at my Grandma’s old split-level. I remember him fishing at Woodhaven and having a beer around the campfire. And I remember him rescuing all of us kids by chasing a garden snake back up into a tree in his backyard when we were all still little.
No matter how far back I go, or what memory comes to mind, with Uncle John there was always one thing in common—his laughter. Uncle John may not always have been laughing, but he was always ready to laugh. He had a sincerity about him that made anyone who met him feel at ease. And he possessed the rare gift not just of love for his family, but for expressing that love with ease. I remember him calling me after he learned that my wife Sarah and I were going to be having a baby girl. He was so thrilled, it was as if our daughter were his own. And that made me realize just how deep Uncle John’s love for his family ran. Though at first glance he may have appeared gruff, at heart he was a deeply caring man, and the love he had for his family is a shining example for us all.
It is impossible not to mourn the fact that Joshua and his future sister will not grow up knowing the fierce loving kindness of Grandpa Court. We must take pains to remember that in truth he is with us still, for every kind action taken by Jackie or Chris toward husband or wife or child will exist only because of the example set by their parents, who showed a love and affection to their own children and to each other that seemed without end. And in this way John’s grandchildren will experience his love even after his passing, for it is this kindness that will pass its way on down through the generations, and even as John leaves us his legacy will continue on, bringing love and happiness to those who have yet to make an appearance on this Earth.
Uncle John, I am a better person for having known you, and this world is a better place because you were here.

I cannot even begin to imagine a world without John and that great smile and laugh in it.I am so glad that we as a family have come back together and started new memories. I pray for Julie and their beautiful children for the strength to somehow carry on. But the beautiful legacy John has left is in the spirit of everyone who shared a moment in time with him because he would make a difference in your life that can never be taken from you. Rest my beautiful cousin and someday I'll see that great smile as we, one by one, rejoin the family and become whole again. I love you John...your "cuz" Marilyn

Julie and Family,
We are sincerely sorry about the loss of John. May the dear Lord bless you and comfort you in your time of sorrow. May you have peace in knowing where he is.

Larry and I offer our sympathy on your loss. We truly know the pain and offer our prayers to our Lord to Lift you and everyone close to John up to to him in Jesus name.

Words can not adequately express the deep and abiding pain and grief that the untimely loss of John brings to his family and friends. John, you will be remembered fondly in the hearts of those who loved you, me included. You always had a twinkle in your eye and a good word to say. Summer evenings won’t be the same without playing bags and eating grilled chicken with you, John. John you were one-in-a-million and now you’re with Jesus in a place where there is no pain or grief, a place where you can watch over and put a good word in for your loved ones. May the Lord’s blessings go with you and may he comfort protect your loved ones and may he keep your memory alive in their hearts forever. Love, Larry

I'm so sorry to read about your loss of your husband ,John my prayers are with you and your family if you need anything please call . I remember working at reavis with you and John coming up to the football games with the kids he was always so funny and you telling me he was your first love and he will always be Julie .I know the pain but always remember the good times. Again I'm so sorry. Your Friend,Grace.

We knew John through Bill & Laurie, who spoke fondly of him all the time so we know he will be truly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with
the family. You have many wonderful memories and fun times to remember him by.

With Love,
John and Laura

I want to let you know how deeply sorry I am. I've know John for many years now and still can't believe he is no longer with us..but he is in a good place..and in a place we will all see him again..he is missed so much by so many people..I just want you to know that my thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

The days I remember with John was when we where just young boys and playing hide and seek at are old house on 73rd and Ashland in Chicago. Those where the good old days. I have missed a lot between living in Cali. and New Mexico but I think often of the days when we where young and all my cousins where so close. He WILL be missed and we will meet again.
All are prayers and thoughts are with you and your family.
With all are Love,
Rick & Maureen Dassie

I am so truly saddened about Uncle John's passing. Ever since I have been part of the family, I will remember at every family holiday his fun nature, how kind he was, his great sense of humor, and how much of a family man he was. I know that he is now in a wonderful place and my all my sympathies go out to everyone that loved him. All my love.

Some of my earliest and fondest memories are of my Uncle John. From the countless summer BBQ's to playing horseshoes in the backyard, to swimming in his 'older' pool behind the 'old' garage, to Thanksgivings with him and my Uncle Jim fighting about typical brother stuff :) ...to spending Christmas Eve's at his house, to shooting darts in the basement, to talking computers, to talking Bears... I could go on and on. I will always remember his unmistakable laugh and the kindness he always showed to my friends, my wife and everyone he met. I love you Uncle John, I miss you, and you will always be remembered!

Some losses are too great to ever fully think you can recover from them. The loss of my brother, in many ways, the other half of me, surely qualifies. I feel half alive. The pain is immeasurable. Linked through blood, genetics, a significant history, and a deep respect and abiding love, this loss is more than difficult to bear. It seems impossible. We looked forward to many activities in the near future. My feisty brother in many ways was the heart and soul of the family. He always sought to maintain family togetherness. Backyard gatherings were legendary. Him at the grill, making chicken like few could, a game of "shoes" that was so important to the camderie that he wanted. Later, as we aged, "bags" became the game. Everyone could join in.
And later a dip in the crystal clear pool that was so zealously maintained and at the perfect temperature. Sure, it was to much work but it existed for those moments when family was present. That was the all important reason. Moments playing music that was at times rowdy and often then sentimental (which he surely was) bragging about his garage, which was his "cave" during the summer. It meant family, it meant friends, and it meant "taking care of business. He loved his home, his incredible wife, his family and friends. He was so filled with passion for life. Soon after he was married he realized that the best avenue to support the love of his life was to perhaps drive a truck. He was kind of a "cowboy" at heart. Seemed like a good fit. So what did he do? When they asked him if he could drive a truck he thought of his honey back home and answered "sure". He would do anything to provide for the love of his life. So after popping the clutch too many times and begging old timers to help him back in, he soom mastered the finer ponts of truck driving. It was a rough career, companies came and went. He was always forced to start at the bottom of the seniority list. Yet he had one eye on the goal of putting in his time so that he could receive his pension and retire. He was tired of all of BS by bosses he was obviously smarter than and definitely harder working than they were. He finally retired and then went on to become the family self taught computer wiz, and I do mean wiz. He then achieved a Real Estate Brokers License and a Mortgage Brokers License. Again, he was conflicted. My brother was a person of huge integrity, deep analysis, and genuine concern for those he served. He did not like many of the games that existed in the Industry, and rightfully so. His customers were family. He loved everything about family. Everything. He believed in family first. And yet during this struggle with cancer, somethings changed. He evaluated the larger context of life and really become extremely close to me. We talked constantly, especially about his very strong concerns for the future of our once great Country. He was concerned for his wife, his family, grandchildren, and basically all others. I shared his passion for this as few did. Sometimes his words fell on deaf ears. We were born somewhat intense and passionate, who shared a desire to live a good and ethical existence. John shared this also with his sister Laurie. Two peas in a pod. She is hurting deeply as I am. His loss is extremely difficult for her. She was looking forward to a long and meaningful future. My poor Mom is at a complete loss. Children are not supposed to go first. He sister Sue grieves deeply. I am sure the all of his buddies and friends are deeply affected. He touched many lives and was a good and loyal friend to all that were part of his world. Only my brother could record music compilations that completely resonated with every aspect of who I am. For those who love and understand music, this says a lot. You are on the same wavelenght. I find it difficult to imagine a life without him. What a huge loss. I will be damaged forever. I did promise my brother that I would do everything in my power to be a testimony to his existence by my words, deeds, personal growth, and anything that enhances his legacy, and mine and others rememberance of him. I will consult with him often. I will help to continue the sense of family that was so important to John. And I will cry often and feel empty inside. I feel a loss that is beyond comprehension. To heal, I will devote myself to others suffering. Life should be more than about "me". Real purpose and meaning comes from serving others. Money alone, cannot do this. In this life, true love and friendships are difficult to find. When you do, you should do everything in your power to cherish it. We take so much for granted. Life is fragile. We never know when we may suddenly pass away. We should make every day a legacy that will speak to to others and they will realize how much our relationship meant to them. I could probably go on and on. I have so many memories I could share, so many thoughts to express. Right now I have too many tears to shed.
I love you Johnny Court. One day I will join you.

I love you,

Your brother Jimmy

My thoughts and prayers are with you all in this time of sorrow. I knew John as a boy, and then re-qcquainted with him this past year through Jim. I know how much he is loved by the family, and know that he is sitting at the right hand of God. Best wishes to the entire family.

I've been sitting here for a long time trying to think of what to say. I can't think of just one thing to say because there are so many things I want to say about my brother, John. I can't even begin to describe how much John means to me. I love him so much. I was looking forward to a long summer filled with times with John and his beautiful wife, Julie. To have him taken away is beyond belief. Now I'm filled with such a sense of loss and a deep void and inconsolable pain. John had a twinkle in his eye I will miss seeing whenever he greeted me with "Hi Honey" each time we got together, which was frequently. I can't say just one thing about him. It isn't enough. He was a wonderful brother and friend. I will miss him every day for the rest of my life. I can't bear the thought of a life without his laughter and presence, but I know he would want us to go on and learn to laugh again. This space isn't long enough to say all the things I loved about John, so I'll just end by saying to John: Thanks for the memories. They will be an endless source of comfort of how my life and many others were enriched by you. I love you now and forever. Love, Laurie. oxoxoxoxinfinity