John Patrick McLenighan's Obituary
John Patrick McLenighan, age 77 of Scandinavia, WI passed away on Tuesday, July 4, 2023. John was born on September 23,1945, the only son of Frank and Eleanor McLenighan. He was the proud father of Michael Patrick (Lori) and grandfather of Kristin and Daniel.
He was a very beloved brother of four sisters: the late Mary (Orlando) Maione, the late Sarah (Larry) Szopinski, Irene Furst, and Rita (late Joseph) Garcia.
John was well loved by 11 nieces and nephews and 23 grand nieces and grand nephews. He was especially fond of the nickname: UJ (Uncle John) the kids gave him.
As a boy, he loved playing at Lincoln Park and ice skating and as a teen became a great dancer. He was a graduate of St. Vincent DePaul Grammar school on the near north side of Chicago and served faithfully as an altar boy. After high school, John pursued work in the building trades and became a skilled bricklayer.
In 1967, the Vietnam war was raging and John was drafted into the Army. He served in Cam Rahn Bay, Vietnam and in Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. When he returned home, he was offered a job with the Chicago Board of Education as a Maintenance Engineer and continued working with the Franklin Park School District until his retirement.
He enjoyed his home projects and leisure time in Wisconsin with friends and family and was always happy to help whenever needed. John learned the skills necessary for building bridges when he served his country as a young soldier. His legacy, however, will be his skill at building bridges of understanding and hope for everyone who heard him.
The treasured memories of John’s ability to listen and to share his wisdom through his life experiences will keep him alive in our hearts ,,,,,,,,,until we meet again.
May the wind be always at your back, John Patrick Michael Joseph McLenighan!
Private family graveside services will be held at a later date at Queen of Heaven Cemetery in Hillside, IL. Holly Funeral Home of Waupaca is assisting the family with arrangements.
What’s your fondest memory of John?
What’s a lesson you learned from John?
Share a story where John's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with John you’ll never forget.
How did John make you smile?