John Feiza

John Feiza, age 69, of Maple Park, IL, is finally free of the chains that bound him and is at peace in the halls of Heaven. He passed away surrounded by his family on January 28, 2019.
He was born November 6, 1949, to proud parents Leo and Eleanor (Shidlo) Feiza in Geneva, IL.
John grew up on the family farm in Virgil, IL and attended local schools. He graduated as a 2nd Lieutenant from Marmion with the class of 1967.
Following graduation he attended Louis College for a time before transferring to Northern Illinois University, where he had a double major; Sociology and Carol Gerlich. They were united in marriage on February 16, 1973. They began their new life together in Valley View for a time, but moved to a house on Lees Rd. in 1976. Later they settled on John’s parent’s property, building a house that took labors of love from all his friends. Every square inch was born from his heart and built with his hands and continues to stand the test of time.
John spent his life in exterior remodeling, installing windows and siding on thousands of homes, first at TSF Siding (Turk, Snyder, Feiza), later Country Side Improvements and finally Feiza Siding. John finally put down his tools in 2006 when his spirit was willing but his body no longer was. His son Derek carried on the family business but John was never far away and was free with as much advice as you could handle.
John’s heart was full of music. He was a talented bass player who laid the foundation for many bands including: The Piranha’s, 4 %, Denver Green (alongside Bruce Conley), Cox’s Army, Richard and The Associates, and last but not least, Axis in 1989. His home was his castle and hanging with his friends, especially Dave Heyob and Larry Zimmer, around the fire was a balm to his soul. They had 10 consecutive years of Labor Day fish fries complete with a camp ground, bon fires, live music and so much more, earning it the nickname, “Woodstock of Maple Park”. John collected arrowheads that he found on his property and he was thrilled with each and every find. He even created handmade cases to hold his treasures. It was important to him to give them a home in the same place they were found and never ever thought of selling even one. His hands were rarely idle and he made many pieces of rustic furniture that grace his home and planted countless trees on his beautiful homestead. John also possessed a green thumb and enjoyed a variety of harvests but left others hopes of victory whither in the sand pits after displaying his award winning horseshoe toss. He was an avid card player, especially cribbage, but only if you had at least a few dollars on the outcome. Sporting events were always enjoyed more with a bet or two but nothing was a sure thing like the love he had for his family. They were his pride and joy and what kept him going even when the going got tough. John had more than his share of challenges, but each was met with determination of spirit and always with a faithful dog by his side. Every dog held a special place in heart and one can’t even imagine the epic Heavenly reunion at the rainbow bridge. John touched the lives of so many through his work, his play and the thousands of hugs he gave with a wink and a mischievous smile. No matter how you met him, you were sure to never forget him.
He is survived by his loving wife Carol; three children: Derek (Jamie) Feiza and their children: Blake and Ethan; Aaron (Misty) Feiza and their children: Jaxon, Brandon and Wyatt; and Brittney (Jeff) Gasner and their children: Tommy, Andy and Lizzy; one sister, Marlene (Rob) Davy and older brother Lenny Feiza; many nieces, nephews and his faithful canine best friend, Midas.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Leo and Eleanor Feiza and Boomer, Knox, Reggie and Caesar, his best friends awaiting him at the rainbow bridge.
Visitation will be from 3-7 p.m., with a memorial service to celebrate his life at 7 p.m., Monday, February 4, 2019 at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St. Elburn, IL 60119.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in John’s name. Checks may be made to the “John Feiza Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address, the Conley Funeral Home Facebook Page, or at www.conleycare.com.

To Follow Visitation

Visitation will be from 3-7 p.m., with a memorial service to celebrate his life at 7 p.m., Monday, February 4, 2019 at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St. Elburn, IL 60119.