Groskopf, John E. Age 62, went home to be with the Lord on August 6, 2013. His final days were spent surrounded by the love and care of his treasured family and friends. John is survived by his loving wife and soul mate, Barbara (nee O'Kelly); cherished children, Kevin (Jamia Gaffney) and Amy (Jim McEathron); their mother, Linda; adored step-daughters, Diane (Adrian) Brierley, Dawn (Scot) Conway, Sandra (Mark) Lee; loving brother, Larry and sister, Sue (Jim) Drwiega. John was proud Grandpa to: Jace, Baby M, Aaron, Alexis, Austin, Ayden, Evan, lan, Noah, Phil and Sophie; devoted son-in-law of Gladys O'Kelly; dear uncle to Brian, Kim, Dennis and Tom; and darling daddy to his furry kids, Max and Maya. Preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Laverne Groskopf and sister-in-Jaw, Shirley Groskopf. John graduated from Eisenhower High School, was an avid Boy Scout and Boy Scout Leader and attended 2 years of Veterinarian School at the University of Illinois, Chicago. He was a member of Local 597 Pipefitters Union for 40 years, lifelong believer and protector of wildlife and mother earth and member of many wildlife organizations. An avid lover and restorer of classic cars, church council member for 2 years, chairperson of the building and grounds and a member of Together We Cope food drive. Funeral Friday, August 9, 2013, 10 am at the McKenzie Funeral Home, 15618 S. Cicero Ave., Oak Forest where a celebration of John's life will take place. Interment is private. Visitation Thursday 3 to 9 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations in John's memory may be made to: P.A.W.S. of Tinley Park (815-464-7298), Relay For Life Oak Forest (www.relayforlife.org) or Together We Cope Food Pantry of Tinley Park (708-633-5040). For Info: 708-687-2990.

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Published by Chicago Sun-Times on Aug. 7, 2013.

Memories and Condolences
for John Groskopf

21 Entries

Barb Groskopf

August 1, 2023

To my John Boy...how can it be 10 years. This one is a tough one for me. Some things just don't change. I LOVE YOU TO THE MOON AND BACK... Always. Barb

Barb Groskopf

August 1, 2021

Hi Babe..it has been 8 years. Seems like yesterday. I will always love you..to the moon and back. I will see you on the other side. Love..Barb

Barbara Groskopf

August 6, 2014

John Boy- It has been one year today. Seems like 1 week and yet also like 10 years. I love you yesterday, today and tomorrow. To the Moon and Back Babe.
Love, hugs and blessings. Barb, Max and Maya. We miss you so much.

Barbara Groskopf

August 2, 2014

John Boy, soon it will be one year since you left to be home with Jesus. Loving and missing you my dear soul mate. This is not good by.... but, I will see you on the other side. We will be singing (you off key- of course)and dancing, loving and rejoicing for eternity. I love you to the moon and back. Max, Maya and me kiss your picture every night at bedtime. They still hog the bed. I love you.

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Barb Groskopf

September 20, 2013

Thank you to everyone that posted a memory, condolences, and love to honor this wonderful man and husband. You are all a blessing. Thank you for your kindness.
Barb

August 12, 2013

John,
You taught me what real love is all about...how to give and receive. You always gave your all and we are better for having you in our lives. I miss you so much. You are at peace and no longer in pain.
Love, Linda

Judy Arrasmith

August 9, 2013

I remember John from Helpmates. I can't remember the years he was active but I do remember when he met Barbara. So happy that they had this time together. My prayers are with Barb and John's family.

August 9, 2013

We will miss John's neighborly hello. Barb may God give you and the family all the comfort you need. Love always
Elizabeth, Krystal, Mark, Tony and Evelyn too.

August 9, 2013

My deepest sympathy to Johns family. I lost Buck last year on the same day. Its a difficult time. Beverly Buckner

August 8, 2013

I will miss seeing John across the aisle in church. Condolences to you Barb and to all his family and friends. Marilyn Fisher

Grace Anders

August 8, 2013

My deepest sympathy to your family. You were one of the good guys from Helpmates and now you are gone way to soon.

Dave Rose

August 8, 2013

We didn't know John, but if he was like his son Kevin, he must have been a great guy. Thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. - The Rose Family (Dave, Mary, Patrick, Tim and Betsy)

John Rybolt

August 8, 2013

Another Pipefitter to another John I will see you there someday in heaven. I will remember you as a great friend from Helpmates. You and Barb were a perfect match here on earth. Barb lean on your friends we will be there for you. May the Lord hold you Barb and John's family in his arms until all your tears are gone. Love A Friend from old times John Rybolt.

August 7, 2013

R I P John & condolence To All.
BoB Kosiewicz ( Hussmann )

Margie Perigo

August 7, 2013

Always in our prayers & hearts....A true gentlemen....You will be missed John.

George Ferenzi

August 7, 2013

My sincerest condolences to the family. John was a very gentle and humble person. Rest in Peace my friend.

August 7, 2013

John,
Even though you weren't a Police Officer like my Big Brothers, Dad and I, I want to say, "Your watch is over, rest, we'll take it from here."
Chuck Beatty, Bourbonnais, IL

Melissa Bibeau

August 7, 2013

Prayers to Barb and family. John was an amazing person and will be missed greatly. Love to you all..

Sherry Mansanarez

August 7, 2013

You will be missed and forever in our thoughts and hearts. Rest in peace

Kim Kolus

August 7, 2013

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. RIP

Crystal Gough

August 7, 2013

You will be missed greatly John, may you Rest in Peace