John L Laugesen

John Laugesen was born July 13, 1952 in Chicago to parents Leon and Elsa (Bang) Laugesen. A sister, Lynne, also welcomed him home. On September 14, 1980 he married the love of his life, Cheryl Strohmeier, and lived happily together recently celebrating their 44th anniversary. Their loving marriage was an example to all who knew them.

At the age of 16, John began his 50 year career in retail management which culminated in managing several stores for Carson’s. His BA degree in business and psychology was from the University of Illinois, Chicago.

A loving family man, his children Jennifer, Connie, and Eric were his joy and he later welcomed Graham and Maura through their marriages. As the years unfolded his grandchildren arrived and Calise, Garrett, Jack, and Frank brought light and love into his life. They affectionately called him Opa.

John was a man of many interests. He was a talented woodworker who created beautiful heirloom quality gifts for his family to treasure. As a wine connoisseur, he enjoyed sharing a fine bottle with friends and family while discussing a wide variety of topics. He was a talented chef, winning several chili cook-offs with his secret recipe. After retirement, he assumed the cooking duties at home and enjoyed collecting and trying new recipes, delighting in sharing his creations with others. Christmas Eve was always the big event of the year. Feeding and observing birds and wildlife in nature was a favorite pastime and he especially enjoyed spending time in Galena. His talents as a photographer were often employed there and are framed and displayed throughout his home.

John was a kind, generous, gregarious man, always willing to help others. He was a man of strong faith demonstrated through his leadership roles at Christus Victor. Most definitely a Chicago sports enthusiast, he loved his Cubs, Bears, and Bulls, always enjoyed watching their games in all seasons.

John is also survived by sister-in-law Christel (Tom) Brymer, brother-in-law Karl (Julie) Strohmeier, and his nieces, and nephews Casey (Young) Suh, Justin (Natalie) Brymer, Sofie (Ben) Alexander, Will Strohmeier, and Steve Strohmeier.

John died November 6, 2024 at the age of 72 after a battle with cancer.

He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

A visitation for John will be held on Thursday, November 14, 2024 at Christus Victor Lutheran Church (1045 S. Arlington Heights Road, Elk Grove Village, IL) from 9:30 am until 11:00 am. Services for John will immediately follow the visitation at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, donations in John’s memory may be given to St. Jude Children’s Hospital at stjude.org