Jack R. Canan

December 8, 1938 – October 23, 2022

Jack Richard Canan, age 83, passed away on October 23, 2022 peacefully in his sleep in his Munster home surrounded by loved ones.

Jack is survived by his children, Cheryl (Craig) Canan-Cheek, Jack (Diane) Canan, Dan (Jen) Canan; grandchildren, Ashley (Joshua) Canan-Holland, Jeff Oskierko, Logan and Dylan Canan; brother, Robert Canan; and two sisters, Shirley (Ron) Shieu, and Eileen (late William) Skees.

Jack was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Ruth (nee Newberger) Canan; his loving wife, Linda (nee DeVries) Canan; sisters, Joan Gelatka, June Wang; and two half-brothers, John "Big Jack" Barclay and Richard "Dick" Barclay.

Jack was born on December 8, 1938, in Chicago, IL and in 1955, joined the United States National Guard and was honorably discharged in June, 1963. He married his forever Love, Linda Karen DeVries on December 8, 1962, the greatest birthday present he ever did receive.

He was the patriarch of the Canan Family. Just like he dealt with all experiences in life, Jack managed his own illness, and the loss of his beloved wife with strength and grace. He wanted to spend as much time with his surviving loved ones as possible.

In his earlier years, Jack was an avid boxer. He often spoke about his time with Johnny Coulon. He could throw a mean punch and he would happily show anyone who asked him how to do so. His stories of growing up in Chicago, sneaking into Wrigley Field, his times living at Liberty Hall and all the mischief he got into with his buddies…he was quite the historian and remembered all the details making you feel like you were actually there with him when he shared these stories.

Jack could build anything and was so proud when a new crafted project of his was complete. When he retired from Allied Tube and Conduit at the age of 74, he kept himself busy with his creative projects, establishing his man cave in the garage, Sci-Fi channel, Fox News, Nintendo 64 and Wii bowling and golf. He created countless memories with his family. He was adamant on staying busy and was always on the move.

If you knew Jack, you would know that he was quite the singer (of course, with his own made-up lyrics when he couldn’t remember the right words), dancer (there’s videos for proof), magician and comedian. A true “JACK” of all trades, he could levitate better than David Blaine…ask anyone who has seen him do it.

His love and realistic expectations for Da Cubs, Da Bears, Bulls and Chicago Blackhawks could never, ever be matched.

His jokes were one-of-a-kind. His laugh was contagious. He had a presence that always provoked a smile. Always. He was just effortlessly hilarious…and he thought so as well.

How can one possibly sum up a man in just a few short paragraphs who meant so much to so many people?

Jack lived his life exactly the way he wanted to. He did it his way. A true OG. He was determined, prideful and hard-working, and carried these attributes through every single aspect of his life.

“Listen Old Man (as Linda would always say)”….we will miss you. We love you. Don’t forget to haunt us and let us know you’re around. Enjoy heaven with your beloved. And continue to work on your jokes and magic tricks while you’re up there…

...until we meet again.

Family and Friends are invited for a Public Visitation on Saturday, October 29, 2022, from 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM (CST) at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home, 8178 Cline Avenue, Crown Point, IN 46307. A tribute by the United States Army will begin formal services at 4:00 PM (CST). Celebration of Jack's life will follow at 4:15 PM (CST) with Rev. Erika D. Brooks officiating.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ChapelLawnFunerals.com for the Canan family.