Dear Rick, Kathy and the Boys,
Barbara and I were very distressed to read your very sad news this evening. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and all the family at this time.  When your name came up on the mail list, I quite expected some good news about Pop. However, as you say, he is in a better place now. May God give you the strength to bear this sad loss.
Ken Crook (Ascot, England)
September 3, 2004


Dear Rick and family:
Please accept my deepest sympathies in this moment of great loss and grief. May the peace of Christ be with you all.
Sincerely,
Dennis Kelly (Buffalo Grove, IL )
September 3, 2004


We were saddened to hear of Dick's passing. His participation in our bridge group carries many fond memories. The stories of his "escapades" at Dominiks always brought a chuckle to us. We will miss him dearly.
John & Marilyn Vergoth (Estes Park, CO )
September 3, 2004


At times like this, words seem so inadequate to describe what an impact Mr. J had on my life and how sorely I will miss him. Mr. J is one of the main reasons I went to Trinity during my teenage years. He was an adult that not only taught us about Jesus but really demonstrated love. Every youth event turned into something fun when Mr. J. was around. I always admired his ability to walk up to a stranger and within minutes engage them in a conversation and make them feel special. No one was ever ignored when Mr. J. was around.
He always had more energy than anyone else in the room and had a playful childlike quality that made you want to play too. Our friendship continued throughout my adult life and I chose him to do a reading at my wedding because I couldn’t image celebrating such an important event without him.

I picture God welcoming Mr. J. into heaven with open arms and a gigantic smile on his face and the words “Well done, good and faithful servant” on his lips. Until we meet again my friend, I will remember your smile, your energy, your playfulness and most of all your friendship.
To the Johnson family, words cannot express how sorry I am for the pain you are feeling. Your father (grandfather) was a great man. You know that even better than the rest of us. May the knowledge that God gave you a wonderful gift when he chose your father (grandfather) for you bring you some comfort.
Lynn Richwine (Wascher) (Bartlett, IL )
September 3, 2004


Dear Rick & Family,
I'm so sorry to hear about the lost of your father. My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this difficult time.
Karen Konopasek (Varchetto) (Fox River Grove, IL )
September 3, 2004


Dear Johnson's,
Our family is so sorry to hear about your beloved Grandpa. We always saw him walking by our house on Sat. mornings with one of the boys. Our deepest sympathy for your family. We will miss him and one of your sons on their weekly walks. You were all truly blessed to have such a wonderful and involved Grandpa. Sincerely, Culleen Siebert and family.
Culleen Siebert (Arlington Heights, IL )
September 3, 2004


Rick, Kathy, Bryan, Ben, Brett, Brad,
So sorry to hear about your dad/grandfather's death. I only met him a few times but over the years I have been fortunate to have heard many stories about his life. It was always clear to me that there was a love and closeness that he had with your family - memories that will live with each of you forever. The most any of us can hope for is to make a difference in the lives of those we love. Even from afar it is obvious to me that he has been incredibly successful.
Greg Goluska (LaGrange, IL )
September 3, 2004


Rick and Family,

I was so saddened and shocked to read about your father. He was such a nice person and always had a smile on his face. The last time I saw him was when my mother and I ran into him at Dominick's and he greeted us and immediately started telling us about his grandchildren. You could hear the pride in his voice and see the love on his face. It hasn't been a year since I lost my father so I know the pain you all are going through. My deepest sympathies on losing a wonderful father and grandfather. I pray God comforts all of you.

Linda Alaimo (Varchetto) (Highland Park, IL )

September 3, 2004


Dear Johnson Family,
My deepest sympathy to all of you in the loss of your Dad. I remember Mr. Johnson so fondly from my childhood and will never forget him. My family were long time members of Trinity. I'll always remember your Dad's enthusiasm, kindness and infectious positive spirit. He really was "larger than life".

Sylvia Roe (Pepich) Sylvia Roe (Carol Stream, IL )

September 2, 2004


Dear Rick:

I'm so sorry to hear about your father. He was a wonderful man. My prayers are with you and your family.

Kay Varchetto (Las Vegas, NV )

September 2, 2004


To the entire Johnson Family:
Our hearts go out to you during this most difficult time. From all of us; to all of you, we will keep you all in our thoughts & prayers. May God keep him safe and watch over you.

Rich & Margie Gallagher (Elgin, IL )

September 2, 2004


We will miss Dick's humor and enthusiasm at the monthly Bridge Club sessions. The evening was never dull when Dick was around - and he wasn't too bad a player, either. Our condolences go out to Dick's family. You can feel proud of the lives he touched in his very positive way.

Susan & Steve Schwartz (Palatine, IL )

September 1, 2004


Unc - You were a very special person. You acted as my dad when I needed one, and I knew you would be always there for me. You will always live and be remembered in my heart. Love, Di

Diane Wallis (Spokane, WA )