John Etten

John J. Van Etten, Age 70, of Peotone, passed away on Thursday, March 24, 2016 at his home. He was born on October 19, 1945 in Chicago, the son of the late Norman Henry and Phyllis Jean (Asher) Van Etten.

He was a US Army Veteran serving from 1963-1966 stationed in Germany. He worked as an electrician for the Illinois Central/Metra Railroad for 42 years retiring in September of 2008. He attended the First Baptist Church of Manteno. He enjoyed working in his yard, gardening, riding his motorcycle and bicycle; and was a fan of the Chicago Bears.

He is survived by his wife, Carolynn L. (Walsh) Van Etten who he married on September 8, 1967 in Chicago. He is also survived by four children; Daniel (Kristi) Van Etten of Grant Park, Karen (Carl) Shoemaker of Manteno, Rebecca (Brian) Broderick of Manteno, and Katie (Gordie) Greenley of Kankakee; nine grandchildren, Jonathan and Alex Van Etten; Abigail, Sam, and Ian Malloy and Luke Shoemaker; Ben and Emma Broderick; and Ava Zelhart; three brothers, Ronald (Elizabeth) Van Etten of Arkansas, Robert Van Etten of Midlothian, and Michael Van Etten of Chicago; two sisters-in-law, Kit (Bob) Flanagan of Orland Hills, and Peggy (Milan) Nikse of Crete; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, David Van Etten; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, John and Florence Walsh; and a brother-in-law, John R. Walsh.

Visitation will be held at the Fedde-Helfrich-Cross Funeral Home on Saturday, March 26 from 1:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held at the Fedde-Helfrich-Cross Funeral Home on Saturday, March 26 at 5:00 p.m., Pastor Hal Trovillion officiating. Cremation rites will be accorded following services. Memorials to VITAS Hospice would be appreciated.