John Houlihan Obituary

Dear Vernal and Family:



I have read some of the tributes to John in the online guest book, and would just like to add that although I have not seen John in a number of years, since we worked together in the State Treasurer's office, he is a gentleman I will never forget. I wonder if it was the guiding hand of someone above who led me to the paper Sunday afternoon and to the loving tribute.



John was an unforgettable gentleman who commanded everyone's Respect whether you agreed with him or not. I first will remember him as a man who took such pride in discussing his family and grandchildren - and in telling a good Irish joke; secondly, I remember him as a Marine's Marine, something anyone who met him knew after just a few hours in his company; and thirdly, without a doubt, as a good Democrat.



My deepest sympathies to you and to all of us who had the privilege of knowing him.



Lynn Finn

Dear Mrs. Houlihan, Maureen & Lloyd, Billy and family:



I was so very sorry to hear of John's passing. Jim Smith and I spoke to him not too long ago and although he knew that his time was limited he seemed so strong and at peace with his fate. He was a great American, a good Democrat and a true patriot. You were all very lucky to have him as husband and father. The rest of us were lucky enough to have had him as a friend. Although our efforts to get John to Congress were unsuccessful it was a good heart fought battle and he was a stand up competitor. I often think of the race and what a great job John did. All the best.



With fond memories,





Greg

To the Houlihan Family:

My thoughts and prayers are with all of you as you mourn the loss of your husband, father and grandfather. John was a wonderful man and a great American. I considered him a dear friend and I was blessed to know him. He served his country with honor, he loved his family and God knows, he was one hell of a good Democrat. We will miss him.

Sincerely,

Jim Smith

To the Houlihan Family:

Words alone can not express my

condolence on the loss of your

dearly beloved husband and father.

John was a man for all seasons and for all people. I felt it an honor

to have had him as a friend and

fellow member of the Worth Township Regular Democratic Org..

Diana R. McCoy

I never all the accomplishments you made as I was just a little girl down the street growing up with your kids. What I do know was that you were a very kind man who will be greatly missed.

I never knew all the accomplishments that you made as I was just a little girl down the street growing up with your kids. What I do know is that you were a very kind man and you will be greatly missed.

Dear Mrs. Houlihan and family, Sorry to hear of the loss of your husband/father. I'll never forget my fond memories of him and your family as I was growing up in the Park Forest area. I also will never forget the tour Laura and I had with him of Washington D.C. at night.He was a good man and will be missed by all who knew him. God Bless you all! David and Laura Pomaranski and Family

My prayers to you Jim and your family on your Great loss.Will be thinking of you all.

Dear Vernal, While no words of mine can ease your loss, I want you to know how much I sympathize with you and your devoted family on the loss of John. He told me just recently what a rich, full life his had been. Let that be your consolatin now. I feel very fortunate to have known him, and consider his friendship and love a special treasure. I hope you will all find consolation in the monument of love and respect John left behind in this community. You can be sure that no one who knew him will ever forget him. You know you have my heartfelt sympathy, and my love and friendship always. Affectionately, Marion Lane

Dear Vernal and Family,

I truly loved John and have missed him so much since I left Oak Lawn six years ago. I will always remember our quiet times in Worth Township Democratic Headquarters. His stories were legendary and have been repeated many times by me (and others, I'm sure) over and over. I will always remember him with great love and affection. My heart and prayers go out to you and to everyone else who loved him.

Dear Vernal and Family,

My heart is breaking for you, your family and all of us who knew and loved John. I have nothing but the fondest memories of the times I spent with John in our various campaign offices. He was a treasure I will always remember with great love and affection.

Dad,

We will all miss you dearly. You are a wonderful imspiration. Thanks for the memories.

Love and God Bless.