This is crushing.

John was a true, trusted friend of mine. I am part of the group of running friends who first met John training for Boston 10. Over the years, John and I ran in sleet and snow, heat and humidity, rain storms, and on occasion, some beautiful days. Through those runs, I know of his deep commitment to his parents, his pride in his nieces and nephews, and his devotion to his family.

I loved John’s humor, whether talking about his deep belief that hotdogs were his downfall in Boston, our shared frustration that a TJ’s pizza serving is only ⅓ a pizza, or lementating (sometimes celebrating!) Chicago sports, John made me laugh. For years John has been my partner at a local 5K every June on a Thursday evening. We run every year because it is one of the only races in the area that allows us to place in our age group. We joke about our running and our frail egos.

Over the years, John and I still talk about some running exploits--an ill-fated half marathon where it was so cold we remained in my car until the national anthem played--WHY run? An accidental run in a lightning storm where we had to call for a ride, HOW did we not know that was coming? There was one hot and humid July night where I was running a women’s 10K. John led my mom, my brother, and my son, still in a stroller, throughout the course, making sure my family found me multiple times; everyone was panting and sweating. As my brother stated, “That’s a real friend.” He was.

But, more than a running friend, John became a close friend. A cheerleader for all Chicago sports, especially those White Sox, baseball and football season will not be the same. John was my Hawkeye partner, and we were lucky enough to start the bi-yearly tradition of watching the Hawks play at NU. For many years it was just the two of us, but in 19, he invited Casey in too, and we were hopeful for a 2021 season. John, when I’m there, I’m going to have a Diet Pepsi for you.

While I mourn the loss of a loyal, true, and trusted friend, I want to send you, his family, my deepest sympathy and my thanks. John was a gift.

John, may all of your runs feel good, all the tennis courts be free, all the tasty food keep you lean, and all your travel be seamless.

You are missed.