John Papnick

JOHN PAPNICK, age 60, of Bartlett, passed away at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, surrounded by the love and prayers of his family, following complications from heart transplant surgery, Sunday, February 16, 2014. A warrior spirit who inspired so many during his health battles has now gone on to victory and his everlasting home. He was born March 25, 1953, in Chicago, IL, the son of Patrick and Marjorie (Honeyman) Papnick. John grew up in Chicago and attended local schools (sometimes sporadically) before enlisting in the United States Army. He proudly served his country until his honorable discharge. Upon his return to civilian life, John worked every kind of job that was available, experiencing life in his own unique way. There was no job too big or too small, there was no one who worked harder or was more dedicated. John met his future wife in high school but didn’t marry her until later in life when their wandering paths eventually crossed and led them to the altar. John and Kathy Monroe were united in marriage on October 19, 1987 in the "cutest little chapel" in Elgin, IL. They made their home in Elgin for a time, making stops in several local communities before settling in Bartlett, where they continued to make a lifetime of memories. John was a great man and an even greater fixer, able to take apart anything, find the problem and make it run good, or even better than new. He loved to camp in Oregon, IL where fishing and tall tales were made to order. Later it became the favorite of both he and his grandson, fishing everywhere but where a sign said "don’t" and even then it wasn’t a hard and fast rule. John liked to play on the computer for hours but loved his music, especially oldies and country. His nieces and nephews adored him because they found a "kindred spirit" in John that never grew up. John’s passing has left a void that none can fill, but he will be remembered forever through the stories and great times that were had by all. He is survived by his loving wife Kathy, Two children: Kellie (Mike) Sikora and their son, Jacob, and Christine Papnick;Seven siblings:Karen, Carol, Patrick, Elaine, Jim, Roseanne and Norman;Many nieces and nephews and a family of close friends. He is preceded in death by his parents Patrick Papnick and Marjorie Pedersen .Visitation will be from 5-7p.m. with a memorial service to follow at 7 p.m., Friday, February 21, 2014, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn, IL 60119. The family suggests that friends attend wearing flannel shirts, t-shirts and jeans. Those wearing suits will not be admitted and neck ties will be cut off with scissors. In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in their name to benefit his favorite charities. Checks may be made to the "John Papnick Memorial" and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or on the web at www.conleycare.com.