John J. Lavarda - 72
3/3/1948 - 6/9/2020
Richton Park, Illinois
John J. Lavarda. Age 72. Longtime Richton Park resident, formerly of Chicago’s Roseland Neighborhood. Graduate of St Willibrord’s High School Class of 1966. Retired from Leavitt Tube Co. after 48 years of service. Proud member and past recording secretary of the Steel Workers Union Local 5544. Avid drummer performing all over the Chicagoland area with the band “UGUYZ”. Die Hard Chicago White Sox fan. Husband for 52 years of Catherine nee Curran. Father of John Lavarda and Dan (Madelyn) Lavarda. Grandfather of Kevin Steiner. Son of the late Albina nee Galvan and Sinesio Lavarda. Brother of Tony (Judy) Lavarda, Theresa (Michael) Jacobsen and Mary Ann (Alex) Rube. Uncle and friend of many. A memorial service will be scheduled at a later date. Info Panozzo Bros. Funeral Home, Chicago Heights 708-481-9230 and panozzobros.com.
Tony Lavarda
on 07/22/20
John,
You are and always will be my wonderful little brother and friend of a lifetime. Each of the oldest and dearest memories I keep closest to my heart include you and the wonderful nonsense we shared during those amazing "growing up" days we enjoyed together in Roseland. You amazed me back then, and you continued to do so through adulthood, especially during the torment of your final illnesses. By your example and great sense of humor, you taught us that the joy of living can still be found, especially when faith is strong and the support of family is so near at hand.
I will miss you so much, John, but I want you to know: I expect you now more than ever to keep a watchful eye on our Chicago White Sox. You've got a great vantage point to work from. Use your influence to keep them on the straight and narrow road to victory, okay?
I love you, John...
Theresa Jacobsen
on 08/08/20
John,
I will always remember what a great big brother you were to me, even to the end. You took me on my first roller coaster ride at Riverview, and you took me on my first motorcycle ride. You took me to the beach on the bus. You always looked out for me; I remember playing football in the living room as kids and I would sometimes fall and get hurt -- you always made sure I was okay.
I miss you, John. I miss talking to you on the phone. You will forever be in my heart.
I will end now as I always did ... I love you, John.