My parents were divorced before I was born. It's rough going to school and growing up in a Polish-Catholic neighborhood with a single parent. John and Flo were there and provided a safe space for me. I learned to drive a car at Lane Tech HS on a circular course in a stick-shift, '57 Ford Fairlane 500 but I really learned to drive on Chicago streets in Uncle John's family Buick with him guiding me in the passenger seat. He wasn't scared - it was confidence in me that was on display. Funny, John thought sports were rigged against the Chicago teams; yet in our lifetimes we saw championships for the Bulls, Bears, Blackhawks, White Sox and even the Cubs. What do you say to that? Uncle John was a war hero being awarded a Bronze Star for gallantry and a Purple Heart for the wounds he suffered to his arm. He carried that disability throughout his life working 38 years as a setup man. No complaints - no heroics. He was one of the Greatest generation; those who gave of themselves when asked and then went about their lives in silent dedication. Why? Because it is the right thing to do. You taught by example and what a great example it was - thank you. I miss you. Your memory will be with me for as long as I live. You were a nice man. Rest in peace. 

Uncle Johnny was my Godfather and favorite uncle. When my Mom was alive, (his sister),I remember the visits with him  and the constant laughter and  trips down memory lane.   My family and I loved his company ,humor and the many stories he shared of his life experiences.  My two young daughters are very fortunate to have had the opportunity to know such an awesome man.  Thankful for the times we got to share with him.  He will be missed.
Love,
Trish Bacha

Mrs. Sowa, Debbie, Michael and Brian, and the entire family..   our deepest condolences during this time.  Our hearts and prayers are with you.  Our family sends our love to all of you in the hopes in may strengthen and comfort you in some way during this difficult time.  We are here for you if you need anything at all.

Our Love,

David, Donna and Lauren Griffin
Green Cove Springs, Florida 

When we received the untimely news of his passing, the first words that my husband said were, "the end of an era."  Truer words clearly were never spoken.  This man, my Uncle, was full of life, full of stories and a delight to be around.  He never lost his spirit, in my eyes, and could talk about his experiences in WWII, if you asked him to, for as long as you would listen.   But there were so many sides to him. He was an avid Cub fan.   He was a great dancer and could boogie like no other.  Another side,  was witnessed about 
1 1/2 years ago at a get-together at his daughter Kathy and Jude's house.  We were singing Karaoke that night, most of us were amateurs just trying to give it a go.  We went through many music genres and you could see Uncle Johnny watching the words on the screen and singing along.  We journeyed  to the music of his generation and the songs of Frank Sinatra,  and right there, in front of a small  intimate audience of family members he belted out "My Way".  I really regret not being quick enough to start recording him but I was so entranced in the emotion and power and the delivery as he belted out the song.  What a lasting and precious memory that is.  He will be missed.   He was loved by everybody.  God blessed him and us with many years, we are so fortunate.  May he rest peacefully in the company of God as he continues to sing with those family members that have gone before.   Love and prayers for all the family.

Al and Fran 

OBITUARY

John J. Sowa

November 23, 1921 – June 10, 2017

Glueckert Funeral Home

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