John Katzenmayer Sr.

July 22, 1929 - July 11, 2018

It is with great sadness that the family of John Katzenmayer Sr. announces his passing on Wednesday, July 11, 2018, at the age of 88 years. John was a loving husband and an exceptional father who overcame many challenges in his life. Born in Gorjani, Yugoslavia, he came to America with a young bride and two little children, looking for a better life for his family, which eventually grew to include another son. John provided for his family through his talents as a master craftsman. His love for woodworking and his artisan skills were evident throughout his life. He loved to build things and tinker in his workshop, often creating the craziest things. John’s passion for fishing also brought him many years of joy and happiness. Family vacations were often spent on a lake in the woods, with him trying to catch an evening meal, followed by a night of fun, laughter and family games. John was a special person, who was loved by his family and his many friends. He was quick with a joke, and ready to lend a hand. His compassion and kindness were well-known and appreciated by all who knew him. John will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 67 years, Apollonia and his children, Sigrid, John Jr. and Daniel. John will also be fondly remembered by his four grandchildren, Erik, Stephanie, Matthew and Erika, his great-grandson Cooper, and by his sisters, Mary and Betty. John was predeceased by his parents Johann and Franzeska, and his brother Clemens. Memorial donations in memory of John can be made to the American Aid Society of German Descendants, 6540 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago, IL 60631.