John C. Karel, age 80, U.S. Navy Veteran and a longtime resident of Westchester, at rest Friday, January 24, 2025. Married to the late Holly Karel, nee Tanner, for 13 years. Beloved companion and dear friend of Michele Mendel for over 40 years. Loving father of Brian (Nancy) Karel. Cherished grandfather of Leah and Avery Karel. Dear brother of Al (Pam) and Keith (Jane) Karel. John was a longtime member, trap chairman, and former president of the Maywood Sportsman's Club in Elmhurst and a longtime member of the Chicago Skyliners Kite Club. John worked at the Illinois Tollway for over 30 years, working his way up from mechanic to retire as Shift Foreman.
He will be missed dearly by all who knew him.
A visitation for John will be held Saturday February 8, from 1 PM until time of Funeral Service 3:30 PM at Woodlawn Funeral Home 7750 W. Cermak Rd., Forest Park. Interment will take place privately at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, Elwood, IL. In lieu of flowers, donations would be appreciated to the Disabled American Veterans 2122 W. Taylor St. Suite 104, Chicago, IL 60612 or www.dav.org. For more information please call (708) 442-8500.
