Richard J. Jakusz, Jr., age 64, of New Lenox, Illinois passed away on Thursday, March 11, 2021, surrounded by his family after a five and a half year battle with cancer. He was born on June 22, 1956 in Hinsdale, Illinois, the son of Richard and Irene Jakusz.
Graduate of Lemont High School in 1974, and went on to earn a degree in electrical engineering, which inspired his lifelong career as a respected business owner and provider for his family. He married his high school sweetheart, Marianne Bracken, and they had three children. Rich’s passion was spending time with his family and he enjoyed participating in many sports, but more importantly, coaching and watching his children and grandchildren’s athletic endeavors. Rich is a member of the Lemont High School Hall of Fame, having earned ten varsity letters in baseball, basketball, football, and track and field, and his three children, whom he all coached, played college sports at DePaul University and Washington University in St. Louis. Whenever, possible, Rich would spend time on the golf course with his son, Ryan, and in the winter months or at family gatherings, could be found at a euchre table.
Preceded in death by his parents, Irene (nee Grabos) Jakusz and his father Richard Sr.
Rich is survived by his wife of over forty-two years, Marianne (nee Bracken), his children, Dana, Kara (Christopher) Starshak, and Ryan, and “Jaja’s” loving fan club, Henry, C.J., Claire and Kyle. He is also survived by his brothers Daniel (Bonnie) and Paul (Tracy) and many nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, brothers and sisters in law, and many cherished friendships.
Rich was a humble leader, kind, and loved by all who met him. He believed in working his hardest and giving his all, which he proudly did for his family, on the playing field, and throughout his battle with cancer. Loving husband, father and grandfather. Our hero. Love you bunches.
Memorial visitation Friday, March 19, 2021, from 8:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. at Markiewicz Funeral Home, P.C. 108 Illinois St. Lemont. A private Memorial Mass will be held at St. Patrick Church.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to the American Cancer Society www.cancer.org
**The visitation is limited to 50 people at a time. Face masks and social distancing are required.**
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