John Gaffke

On July 30, John Gaffke passed away peacefully surrounded by family. He was born on June 25, 1936. John is reunited with his parents, Frank and Vivian and brother, Paul. Left to treasure a legacy of precious memories are his wife, Barbara of nearly 58 years, son Michael (Lara Muldoon) Gaffke, Jeanine (Michael Kane) Gaffke and Corinne (James) McKeag. John was a life-long learner and educator, teaching social studies at Roosevelt High School in Chicago for 38 years. John received his teaching degree from Loyola University Chicago and his master's in education from Northeastern University.   He cherished his family roots in both Chicago and LaCrosse Wisconsin. 

John’s greatest joys were spending time with his four grandchildren, Aidan, Elise, Vivienne and Lilliana, traveling the world with his wife and family, tending to his rose garden, dancing with his wife, relaxing in their Lake Geneva home and watching and attending Cubs, Packers and Bears games. 

Visitation Wednesday, August 2, 9 a.m. to 12 noon at Ryan-Parke Funeral Home, 120 S. Northwest Hwy., Park Ridge. Funeral to follow at St. Paul of the Cross Church. Mass 12:30 p.m. Entombment All Saints Mausoleum. In lieu of flowers, memorials to the charity of your choice.

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