John Stephen Konezney III, 69, of Downers Grove, IL, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 18, 2026. John was the loving son to the late John Jr. & Donna (née Schimek), beloved husband of Karen (née McGill) and a devoted brother to Robert. John was a loving stepfather to Craig Skala Jr. (Katie) and Kelly McKissack (Drew), always offering encouragement and a good sense of humor. Known affectionately as “Papa John”, he was a deeply cherished grandfather to Easton, Rachel, Andie, Reese, Abigail, and Connor. He was also a proud uncle to Katelyn, Ryan, and Zachary, and held a special place in his heart for his Aunt Judy. Family was the center of John’s world, and he took immense joy in celebrating life’s moments, both big and small, with those he loved.

John built a successful career as a pipefitter welder at UOP, where he dedicated nearly 44 years of hard work before retiring. Retirement allowed him to enjoy the things he loved most, especially spending time at his lake house. He also enjoyed gardening and spent many hours working outdoors around his home.

A devoted bowler for many years, John was also a longtime member of the Downers Grove Moose. He had a deep appreciation for classic cars, and one of his greatest loves was his 1968 Dodge Dart GTS, which he purchased while in high school and proudly owned throughout his life. Whether he was at the lake house, in the garden, at the bowling alley, or spending time with family and friends, John found joy in life’s simple pleasures.

While family and friends would have loved many more years with John, they are grateful for the memories they shared with him. His stories, laughter, and ability to bring people together will be remembered fondly and missed dearly by all who knew and loved him.

A Visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, from 9:30am to 11:30am, at Cappetta’s West Suburban Funeral Home, 4920 Main St., Downers Grove, IL 60515. Chapel services will commence at 11:30am, followed by a procession from the funeral home to Clarendon Hills Cemetery, 6900 S Cass Ave, Darien, IL 60561 for an interment. For additional information please call 630-852-8000 or visit us at westsuburbanfh.com