John "Jack" Henry Klintworth

Jack grew up in Springfield, attended local public schools, and graduated from Feitshans High School. He continued his education at Springfield College in Illinois and Illinois State University before earning a master’s degree from Sangamon State University (now, University of Illinois at Springfield).

While attending Illinois State, Jack met the love of his life, Barbara Ellen Zabel. They married in 1962 and built a life together, raising two children, David and Michelle, and making their homes in Springfield, Sherman, and Rochester. Jack spent most of his career working for the State of Illinois, retiring after 35 years of service.

Family, faith, and community were at the heart of the life Jack and Barbara shared. Jack was known for his wonderful sense of humor and his love of history. He brought laughter and warmth to those around him and will be fondly remembered by all who knew him. He served as a Cub Scout leader and was involved in his church community. While attending Lutheran churches in the Springfield area, he served on the church councils and was the site manager for the construction of the St. John’s Lutheran Church Parish Life Center. He also played a key role in establishing Springfield Lutheran High School, serving as the board chair through the inaugural years. In retirement, Jack pursued his passion for history, particularly Abraham Lincoln, by volunteering at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum. He also shared his extensive knowledge of Lincoln and the Lincoln family through presentations to local organizations.

Jack and Barbara enjoyed travelling, visiting National Parks and further enhancing his interest in history at key historical sites and battlegrounds throughout the country.

Jack loved his family and was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Eleanor. He is survived by his wife, Barbara; his children, David Klintworth (Dawn) and Michelle Klintworth (Silvio “Tony” Galassi); his grandchildren, Alexander Klintworth (Megan), Abigail Klintworth, and Madison Tighe (John Paul “JP”), Elliott and Dominic Galassi (Kaytlyn), and Jacob Galassi (Gabrielle); and his great-grandchildren, Zoey and Norah Klintworth and Carsen and Oliver Galassi.

Family and friends will gather to honor Jack at a service at Bisch Funeral Home West on Koke Mill Road in Springfield at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 10. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. John’s Lutheran Church in Springfield or Lutheran Child and Family Services.