Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
BORN
1951
DIED
2017
John Tanis Obituary
John Tanis of Rensselaer, IN, died on July 7, 2017, in Lafayette, IN.
John was Music Director at Epiphany Lutheran Church in Elmhurst for 20 years and founder of the Elmhurst Children's Choir. John retired from Lincolnwood Elementary School in Evanston after a long teaching career. He sang with Bella Voce in Chicago until 2014 and composed many original pieces sung by his church choir. John's life was dedicated to music, his students and the many churches, synagogues and organizations for which he played and sang.
He is missed by his mother, seven siblings and uncountable friends, students and colleagues with whom he shared his musical gifts.
A Memorial Service will be held at Epiphany Lutheran Church, 314 W. Vallette St., Elmhurst, IL on Saturday, August 26 at 11:00 am.
Memorial Donations may be made to the church. Info 630-832-8457.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Tanis
4 Entries
Elena Lashmet
November 13, 2022
My children had the pleasure and honor to be taught by Mr. Tanis as part of the Elmhurst Children's Choir. They--and I--were continually inspired by his creative and talented teaching. He gave them experiences we cherish to this day. I was so saddened to hear of his passing. He was a unique and unforgettable person. Thank you, Mr. Tanis, for sharing your many gifts with us. We miss you.
Lori Pett
August 25, 2017
Mr. Tanis was a talented man with many gifts: singing, creating lyrics and melodies, training children to sing while having a great time and donating time to nursing homes with the children's choir. Mr. Tanis was fun, loving, the best example of a leader, mentor, and friend. My daughter and I were blessed to be apart of his children's program. Thank you, Mr. Tanis, for showing us what it means to be a Christian. God speed.
KELLEY
July 26, 2017
MAY THE THOUGHT OF KNOWING THAT FAMILY AND FRIENDS SHARE IN YOUR GRIEF BRING YOU A MEASURE OF COMFORT.PLEASE READ PROV 17:17
Judy Tepe
July 14, 2017
Rest In Peace dear friend. Although it's been many, many years since we shared our friendship you will always hold a special place in my heart. Keep making that beautiful music in heaven. Sing a Bach motet for me.
Showing 1 - 4 of 4 results
Make a Donation
in John Tanis's name
Memorial Events
for John Tanis
How to support John's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor John Tanis's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
