Prairie State Wire

John J. "Jack" "Jocko" Vlazny, born on August 2, 1943, passed away on March 14, 2025. He was the beloved husband of Patty Griffin Vlazny for 47 years and the devoted father of Kathleen (Mike) Bilski and Christine (Scott) Machalek. Jack was the adored Papa of Abigail, Kaitlyn, and Charlotte Bilski and Kaylee, Nora, Jack, Aubrey, and the late Lucas Machalek. He was the loving brother of Jim (Sue) Vlazny, Jean (late Bill) Dorgan, Eleanor (late Charlie) Mitchell, and Julie (Ralph) Rottier. Jack was the fond brother-in-law of Tim (late Susie) Griffin, the late Lorry Griffin, and Judy Griffin. He was preceded in death by his parents, James Vlazny and Virginia and John Owl, and his brother Larry (Jill) Owl.

Jack dedicated over 50 years as an independent insurance agent. He was affectionately called "Mr. Mendel" and served as the president of the Mendel Alumni Association, organizing various events to keep the Mendel spirit alive. He was also the president of the Men of Tolentine, an organization that raised funds for Augustinian priests and brothers, and was recognized as Affiliate of the Augustinian Order.

Throughout his life, Jack coached grammar school football and his daughters' sports teams. He was an avid fan of the Chicago Bears and Chicago White Sox. Jack will be deeply missed by many.

Visitation will be held on Thursday from 3:00 – 8:00 p.m. A Funeral Mass of the Resurrection will take place on Friday at 12:30 p.m. at St. Elizabeth Seton Church, following a service at the Robert J. Sheehy & Sons Funeral Home. Interment will be private at Good Shepherd Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Midwest Augustinians.

Please share your memories and stories on Jack's Tribute Wall on www.sheehyfh.com.

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