John Philip Kearney
1954 - 2025
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John Philip Kearney, 71, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 10, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Born on January 28, 1954, in Canandaigua, New York, to Marilyn Souls and John Kearney Sr., John spent his early years there before the family settled in Northbrook, Illinois.
From an early age, John developed a love for photography, building a darkroom in his parents' basement, where he spent countless hours experimenting — sometimes even falling asleep there. His creativity was matched by his craftsmanship; he loved working with his hands and was a skilled electrician, known for his precision and resourcefulness.
A true outdoorsman, John found peace in nature and especially loved spending time in Maine with friends and family, where the rocky coast and quiet forests reflected his thoughtful, observant spirit.
A longtime Chicago resident, John met Jeanette Smith, and together they raised two sons, Andrew and Spencer. He also became a grandfather to Tadhg in 2022. Most recently, John proudly walked his son Spencer down the aisle alongside Jeanette at Spencer's wedding in September.
John will be remembered for his gentle nature, selfless heart, and the way he always had a story to share.
He is survived by his former wife, Jeanette Smith; sons Andrew Clark Kearney (Ivan Glynn) and Spencer John Kearney (Chelsea Vaccaro Kearney); his grandchild, Tadhg Glynn; brothers Mark and Stephen; sister Ann Lamas; and his loving niece and nephews.
Born on January 28, 1954, in Canandaigua, New York, to Marilyn Souls and John Kearney Sr., John spent his early years there before the family settled in Northbrook, Illinois.
From an early age, John developed a love for photography, building a darkroom in his parents' basement, where he spent countless hours experimenting — sometimes even falling asleep there. His creativity was matched by his craftsmanship; he loved working with his hands and was a skilled electrician, known for his precision and resourcefulness.
A true outdoorsman, John found peace in nature and especially loved spending time in Maine with friends and family, where the rocky coast and quiet forests reflected his thoughtful, observant spirit.
A longtime Chicago resident, John met Jeanette Smith, and together they raised two sons, Andrew and Spencer. He also became a grandfather to Tadhg in 2022. Most recently, John proudly walked his son Spencer down the aisle alongside Jeanette at Spencer's wedding in September.
John will be remembered for his gentle nature, selfless heart, and the way he always had a story to share.
He is survived by his former wife, Jeanette Smith; sons Andrew Clark Kearney (Ivan Glynn) and Spencer John Kearney (Chelsea Vaccaro Kearney); his grandchild, Tadhg Glynn; brothers Mark and Stephen; sister Ann Lamas; and his loving niece and nephews.
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