John Kennedy

John E. Kennedy

Age 71 of Wilmington and formerly of Joliet, passed away Thursday, January 21, 2016 at Edward Hines, Jr. VA Hospital in Hines.

Born September 6, 1944 in Joliet, John Edward was a son of the late Edward and Helen (Allen) Kennedy. He was raised and educated in Joliet and went on to honorably serve in the United States Navy. John owned and operated Kennedy Electric in Wilmington. He enjoyed antiques, and collected Jack Daniels No. 7 memorabilia and trains. In his free time, John took pleasure in boating on the river.

Survivors include his wife Jean; three children: Shannon (Joe) Bertoldi of Wisconsin and twins: Connie (Bryan) VanHorn and Bryan Kennedy, both of Arizona; grandchildren: Teri Anna (Rob) McGowan, Isabella, Ricky, Camille and Gunner; great grandchildren: Joey and Max; his step-son Larry (fiance’ Melissa) Statkus of North Chicago; one brother Paul Kennedy of Joliet and several nieces and nephews.

John was preceded in death by his parents and one brother James Kennedy.

Visitation will be Monday January 25, 2016 between the hours of 4:00 and 8:00 p.m. at Baskerville Funeral Home, 700 East Kahler Road, in Wilmington.  Funeral services will follow in the funeral home on Tuesday January 26, 2016 at 10:00 a.m.  Reverend Steve Bondi from St. Rose Catholic Church will officiate and burial with full military honors will follow in Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood at 11:30 a.m.

Preferred memorials may be made as gifts in John’s memory to his family for their distribution.

Family and friends may sign the guest book, share photographs or view John’s memorial wall by logging onto: www.BaskervilleFuneral.com

Funeral services and arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Baskerville Funeral Home in Wilmington. (815-476-2181)