John Paul Valaitis

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/