John Raphael Walsh

John Raphael Walsh

August 23, 1942 – August 10, 2025

John, who was lovingly known as “Jack”, was born to make a difference in this world on August 23, 1942, in Atwood, IL to Geneva C. and John W. Walsh. He departed us peacefully at home in Champaign, IL August 10, 2025, to join his brother Ed and parents in his eternal home.

Jack lived a life rich with service, meaning and love. He was a proud veteran of the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Army, a brilliant mind among the ranks of Mensa, an avid golfer, and a singer whose voice turned an ordinary day into a cherished memory. Jack was an animated storyteller and loved to share memories of his time in college at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, where he studied “beer drinking”, and obtained a Bachelor of Science degree. He always inspired those who listened, recounting his lifelong service to the military, his travels to Germany and Japan, annual golf outings with cousins, and all the shenanigans he got into as a child, but always with a smattering of the Russian language told in his tales.

Yet, his proudest role was that of father, grandfather, and great grandfather.  In Jack’s eyes, family was the truest measure of wealth. Though his final note has sung, it resonates through the lives of those he loved.

Jack is survived and deeply loved by his children, siblings and many family members.

Son Wesley Walsh, Decatur, IL (grandchildren Valerie, Jacob and Liam). Daughter Susan Walsh, Tolono, IL (grandchildren Brook, Tucker, and Justin) (great grandchildren Dakota and Nash). Son Andrew Walsh, Champaign, IL (grandchildren Sunny, Andrew, Jack, Marvin, and Riley)

In remembrance of Jack, a viewing is scheduled this Saturday August 16th from 10am to 12pm at Freese Funeral Home, 407 S. Bourne St. Tolono, IL. A private funeral service for family immediately follows. He will be laid to rest at St. Joseph Cemetery in Ivesdale, IL.

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