John Uerkwitz

John Edward Uerkwitz

"Jack"

Age 85 of Morris, passed away Monday morning October 28, 2013 at his home.

Born March 20, 1928 in Morris, John was a son of the late Roy and Dorothy Patton-Uerkwitz. He was raised in Morris and was drafted into the United States Army, where he honorably served during the Korean Conflict. On July 17, 1965, Jack married Elizabeth Colleen Brady (nee Walsh) in Morris and she preceded him on February 29, 1972. Jack's employment entailed working at the Seneca Shipyards during World War II, and he was later hired as a butcher. Jack was most known for his work in construction, and he retired from the Laborer's Local #75 in 1983, after many years of service. Jack was a member of the Morris American Legion Post 294 and the Fraternal Order of Eagles 1024 in Morris. He had a love of fishing and enjoyed playing the lottery and spending time with his friends at Feeney's. Jack greatly cherished his family and took great pleasure in spending time with his grandchildren.

Survivors include his daughter Lisa (Lou) Orzech of Shorewood; three grandchildren: Julia, Evan and Aaron; one sister Virginia (the late Harry) Wollgast of Morris and one brother Robert "Butch" (Ada) Uerkwitz of Missouri, as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Jack was preceded in death by his parents; wife Elizabeth; brother Donald and sister Pauline Cagle.

Visitation and video tribute will be held on Wednesday October 30, 2013 from 1:00PM until time of funeral service 3:00PM at Reeves Funeral Home, 408 East Washington Street (one block east of Illinois Route 47) in Morris. Reverend Deb Percell from the First United Methodist Church of Morris will officiate.

Burial will be in Mount Carmel Cemetery, Morris. Pallbearers and Honorary Pallbearers will be: Lou Orzech, Julia Orzech, Evan Orzech, Aaron Orzech, Mike Feeney, Jerry Hendricks, and James Peterson.

Preferred memorials may be made as gifts in Jack's memory to Grundy Community Volunteer Hospice, 518 West Illinois Avenue, Morris, Illinois 60450 or to Jack's family for distribution to a local charity of their choosing.

The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to Quality Home Health, Joanie Sereno and Grundy Community Volunteer Hospice, Deb Raymond, Doc Christiansen, and Micki Hendricks. Your kindness, care and compassion will always be remembered.

Friends may sign the online guestbook or send private condolences to the family by logging onto: www.ReevesFuneral.com

Funeral services and arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves Funeral Homes, Ltd. in Morris. (815-942-2500)