John A. Kovalcik "Sonny or Chic"

June 26, 1932 - November 29, 2017

Age 85, of Braidwood, IL formerly of Riverside, IL passed away Wednesday, November 29, 2017 at his home. Born June 26, 1932 in Chicago, IL to the late John and Concetta (nee D’Onofrio) Kovalcik. Veteran of the United States Army having served during the Korean Conflict. He was proud to have served with the 101st Airborne, Stevens Rangers and be awarded with the Silver Star. Member of the American Legion Post # 0699 in Lyons, IL and former member of the VFW Post #5422 in Wilmington, IL. He was also a member of the Masonic Lodge Oracle Chapter 180 in Glenview, IL. Retired from Carpenters Local #80 in Lyons and after retirement he worked as a security guard at several different locations. John was an avid gardener, pool player, and was known as the “Master Chef” for his cooking. Surviving are his wife, Maureen Brannan of Braidwood, whom he married June 29, 2013; two sons, Shawn Kovalcik of Lyons and Steven (Michele) Kovalcik of Downers Grove, IL; two daughters, Diana (Al) Shimkus of Encinitas, CA and Evelyn “Libby” Kovalcik of Encinitas, CA; four grandchildren, Tyler and Tanner Shimkus, Riana Kovalcik, and Catrina Limandri; one brother, Tom (Susie) Kovalcik of Highland Park, IL; one sister, Connie Michaels of Sugarland, TX; daughter-in-law, Juliana Kovalcik; and brother in law, Bill Lillwitz; and numerous nieces and nephews. Preceding him in death were his parents; one son, Michael Kovalcik; and two sisters, Ursula Lillwitz and Marian (Don) Thompson. Funeral services will be from the R.W. Patterson Funeral Home and Crematory, Monday, December 4, 2017 at 9:30 a.m. to the Immaculate Conception Church in Braidwood for a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m. Visitation Sunday, December 3, from 2-6 p.m. Interment with military honors will be at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, Elwood, IL.