Conley Funeral Home, 116 W Pierce Street, Elburn, IL (2025)

09/07/2025

Life Story and Service Details For
HELEN BIDDLE

Helen Biddle, age 75, of Elburn, passed away Thursday, September 4, 2025, surrounded by the love and prayers of her family. Finally freed from the chains that bound her on earth, Helen has been made anew in Heaven.

She was born on June 27, 1950, in Forrest City, AR, to loving parents, Robert and Roberta Nold.

Helen’s family moved to Elgin, IL for a time before settling in St. Charles in 1962 and attended local schools.
She graduated from St. Charles High School with the class of 1968.

When Helen met Mike Biddle, the stars aligned and so did their hearts. Their love story would last for 53 years and chronicle two children, four grandchildren and a host of friends that became family.

Helen found work initially at St. Charles Bowl where she honed a 180 average and made a name for herself through countless lanes and thousands of pins whose crashing booms echoed across the years. Though she kept bowling in various leagues, Helen’s vocations continued at Richardson Electronics. Later she would make stops at DuKane and Euclid Beverage before dedicating many years at the St. Charles Park District as an activity’s director.

Helen’s prowess on the softball field grew over 30 years of hardscrabble play and clutch hitting in the biggest games. Her 500 average over that time stands as a testament to her dedication and never letting her eye stray from the ball. Shining in the spotlight brought her to several championship games, a place of honor twice over as a member of the Women’s Class A Illinois All-State team and a three-time member of the USSSA Class A Women’s All-Star Team from 1979-1981. Helen was named Best Female Defensive Player at the 1982 Mixed competitive N.I.T. in Hutchinson, KS and was on the 1984 Mixed N.I.T. All-Tournament Team in Rockford IL. In 1984 she was named to the Women’s All-Time All World Team by the USSSA National Hall of Fame committee. Her career stalking the diamond culminated in winning the USSSA DeBeer Pollack Women of the Year Award in 1985 and being inducted into the Illinois Softball Hall of Fame in 1997. Helen dominated the outfield but also put her indelible stamp at first base. She was often recruited by teams throughout the U.S. and paid her way to play in the biggest games. Even when her playing days were over, Helen kept her hand in the business of softball by helping to organize tournaments with 200 teams, ran women’s slow pitch softball in St. Charles for many years, and even played in the Senior Olympics, racking up a stellar reputation both near and far. But her 40 trophies and stacks of plaques paled in comparison to the love and dedication to her family.

Her children were her life, and she never missed a steer or horse show with a pocket full of treats for the horses. Countless basketball or football game or any activity that starred John or Jessica, Helen was front and center, even if she had to fly there.

She leaves her loving husband of 53 years, Mike Biddle; two children: John M. Biddle II (Lauren) Biddle and Jessica (Brett) Saari; four grandchildren: Lee Biddle, Eve Biddle, Clifford Saari and William Saari; three siblings: Robert (Glenda) Nold, David (Rhonda) Nold, and Patricia Nold; many nieces, nephews and a community of friends on and off the softball field. The family would like to extend a special thank you to Debbie Brandau, who dedicated special care to Helen even into her last day.

She now joins her parents, Robert and Roberta Nold who preceded her in death.

Visitation will be Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at Elburn Lions Park, 500 Filmore St., Elburn, IL, from 4-8 p.m. A funeral to celebrate her life and faith will be held at 10 a.m., Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at Lily Lake Congregational Church, 44W122 Empire Rd, St. Charles, IL 60175, physically located in Lily Lake, IL. Interment will follow at Lily Lake Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Alzheimer’s Association at donorservices.alz.org. Memories and tributes may be left on the Conley Funeral Home page, or at www.conleycare.com.

09/02/2025

Life Story and Service Details for
KARL A. LINDELL

Karl Allen Lindell, age 55, was tragically killed in an automobile accident on the evening of Tuesday, August 26th, 2025, leaving a Karl-sized whole in the hearts of those who knew him.

Karl grew up in Hoffman Estates and Schaumburg, Illinois, but his real love was the city of Chicago, with all its diversity and excitement. He was a staunch defender of those he loved, and an outspoken ally for the disenfranchised, even to his own detriment. He could not stand racism; it was clear to all who knew him that skin color was not the scale of human value (Unless you were an African American woman – they were his queens!)

Karl was diagnosed with juvenile diabetes mellitus when he was 4 years old and was educating and mentoring people in their acceptance and treatment of the condition from the minute he was diagnosed. He never wanted any special treatment and hated the idea of being classified as disabled for something he had been living with his whole life. His unwillingness to curtail his adventures gave many people inspiration to live their lives to the fullest, despite what medical or mental health hurdles might be put in their path.

Karl loved playing soccer growing up. He was a fierce competitor, wanting to win at all costs, which in adulthood turned into a love of spectator sports. On any given day, he could be found sitting on the couch watching a game or sporting event (possibly with some money riding on it). He enjoyed the outdoors, particularly riding his bicycle through Chicago, and walking the streets of the city. He also loved plants and mowing the lawn. He once told me the best part about prison was the hours spent out on the tractor mowing the grounds. We are waiting for him to appear at his beloved place on the front porch, having a smoke and talking to friends and making new ones, either on the phone or on the sidewalk.

Karl was very creative and found expression in drawing, painting, and ultimately as a tattoo artist. He was so proud of his older brother, Bob’s, courage to break into the tattoo field in Chicago and thought, “If he can do it, so can I.” During his incarceration he was allowed to paint a mural in the addiction recovery room which remains there to this day. Karl was lovingly thought of in our family as a fashionista. He might not have enough money for gas, but there was always enough money for a great pair of shoes! He never met a great sticker that could not find a place on his toolbox, and anything able to be held was considered a prop.

Karl L-O-V-E loved music and showmanship. He and some friends started the band “Mr. Yuck” in high school, making some memorable music, most notably at The Vic in Chicago. His trademark orange fur-covered drums were a hit wherever they played. He moved to Austin, Texas with his first love, Sylvia Barrios, in the late 90’s and was forced to return to Illinois when life on life’s terms became too much. He was forever trying to return to the place that brought him so much joy. Karl was able to meet anyone he set his mind to and the cast of characters in his life, particularly in Austin and Chicago, always contained people from all walks of life and every level of notoriety.

Karl was hilariously funny. He had an innate way of putting people at ease - like they’d known him their whole life. Anything was fodder for a joke, which was good because his life was not always easy. He was unabashedly himself, shunning pretense of any kind. While appearing tough on the outside, he was tender-hearted and fiercely devoted to those who pierced his walls.

Karl always wanted a wife and children. In the traditional sense that was not to be, but he had extended family with Saleema Rogers and her daughter, Madden, whom he looked upon as his own. Willie, and his family, particularly his mother; his friend, Mario, and his family and too many others to name took Karl in and cared for him in ways his biological family could not. We are forever grateful for the love and support you provided our baby brother.

Karl was crazy about his nephews, Sam Larson, Jacob Larson, and Miles Lindell, and his niece, Olivia Gordon. There were many Christmases and a few Easters where the plates had barely been cleared and Karl was off to the casino with someone he was “mentoring” in the fine art of gambling. He would tell anyone that would listen what his grown nephews, Sam, Jacob (and family), and Miles were doing and how proud he was of them. He was so great with kids – they were drawn to him. He was taken from his great niece and nephew, Dorothy and Ezra, far too soon.

Blood family was so very important to Karl in his earlier years and he struggled with the idea of taking Olivia into our family, as he thought it would lessen the love we felt and the time we had for him. We are so grateful for this last year sharing a household with him as part of Susan, Wade, and Olivia’s family and that he came to know that both our and his love were not finite. He cared for Olivia and was a warrior for her in spite of his fear of not being enough. He spoke the language of love and acceptance to others but many times did not give that grace to himself.

Karl was not a perfect man, but he was a good man and had an innately sweet nature in spite of his rough edges. He made every attempt to own his behavior and do right by his family. His religion teaches the power of our ancestors and our fervent hope is that he watches over all of us with the same passion he showed on Earth.

Karl is survived by his brother, Robert Lindell, and Robert’s son, Miles Lindell; his sister Susan (Lindell) Larson and brother-in-law, Wade Larson, their sons Samuel and Jacob Larson, Jacob’s wife, Holly (Rusk) Larson, and their children, Ezra and Dorothy.

He is reunited with his parents, Robert Eugene and Betty Simmons Lindell.

A Celebration of Life will take place on Friday, September 5th, 2025 at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn, IL 60119. Visitation is from 4 to 7 pm; Service from 7 to 8 pm. Your support would mean the world to him and to us.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made in Karl’s name to the American Diabetes Association. Donations may be mailed to American Diabetes Association, PO Box 7023, Merrifield VA 22116-7023 or submitted at diabetes.org. Memorials may be mailed in care of P.O Box 66, Elburn, IL 60119. Tributes and memories may be left on the Conley Funeral Home page or at www.conleycare.com.

09/01/2025

Our office will be closed on Monday, September 1, 2025, for the Labor Day holiday, but we are still available by appointment if our services are needed. If you need to speak with a director or a member of our staff please don't hesitate to reach out. We can be reached 24/7 at (630) 365-6414. Everyone have a blessed and safe Labor Day.

08/30/2025

Life Story and Service Details for
LARRY FLICKINGER

Larry Flickinger, 80, of Sugar Grove, Illinois, passed away unexpectedly on, Thursday, August, 28, 2025. He was born in Freeport, Illinois on August 12, 1945, to parents, Dwight and Barbara Flickinger.

Larry spent his early years in Lanark, Illinois where he attended local schools. When he started junior high his family picked up and moved to Elburn, Illinois where he attended Kaneland Jr./Sr. High School graduating class of 1964.

Larry met and began dating the love of his life, Sandra Damon their junior year of high school. They would marry two years after graduating from high school on June 4, 1966, at Sugar Grove United Methodist Church.

Starting in August of 1964, Larry would proudly join the Navy serving four 4 years as a radio man on the U.S.S. Ashtabula. Larry was particularly proud of the time he spent serving his country. In 1971 Larry began working for Walker Process Equipment in Aurora, Illinois where he would remain for 40 years after which he briefly retired. He quickly realized that he wanted to continue working, always looking to keep his hands and mind in motion, so he returned to Walker Process Equipment for an additional 9 years retiring for good in 2022.

Larry was an active member of many organizations, including Sugar Grove United Methodist Church, Lucky 50 Fishing Club, Sandwich Early Day Engine Club, Sugar Grove Historic Society, Kendall County Historic Society, Northern Illinois Steam Power Club, and the Sugar Grove American Legion.

In his free time Larry was an avid wood carver, fisherman, golfer, and steam and gas engine collector and exhibitor. He had an extensive collection of ice cream scoops, topping out at 251. Larry and Sandra were extensive and dedicated ice cream makers, making it from scratch using a gas engine. Over the years they handed out over 60,000 free scoops of ice cream, while demonstrating the power of the gas engine. Larry was a pivotal member of his family and will be missed dearly by all who had the great honor of calling him family or a friend.

Larry is survived by his wife of 59 years, Sandra Flickinger; his sons: Ralph Flickinger and Rodney (Sandee) Flickinger; his grandchildren: Robin (Kevin Hall) Shute and Robert (Sadie Book) Lehman III; his great grandchildren: Kamden, Bryleigh, Kendalyn, and Brecken; his sister, Charyl (John) Paris; his sister-in-law, Connie Flickinger; his sister-in-law Carol Crane; and a whole countryside of friends.

He was reunited with his parents, Dwight and Barbara Flickinger; his brother, Melvin Flickinger; his nieces: Mandy Sawyer and Tessa Damon; his brother-in-law, William “Bill” Crane; and his brother-in-law Richard Damon.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, from 3:00p.m. to 7:00p.m. at Conley Funeral Home at 116 W. Pierce Street, Elburn, IL 60119. A funeral service will be held the following day on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, at 10:00a.m. also at Conley Funeral Home. Interment will be held immediately following the service at Garfield Cemetery, located in Campton Hills, Illinois.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Vets Roll in memory of Larry via the following link https://www.vetsroll.org. Memorials may also be mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, IL 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address, the Conley Funeral Home page, or at www.conleycare.com.

08/26/2025

Life Story and Service Details for
PAUL K. DIEHL

Paul K. Diehl, age 89, of Elburn, formerly of West Chicago, passed away Monday morning, August 25, 2025, at his home, surrounded by the love and prayers of his family. Paul traded acres on earth for celestial fields and now tends them for the Lord.

He was born December 6, 1935, in Aurora to loving parents Edward and Catherine Diehl.

Paul grew up on the family farm that had planted generational roots in West Chicago, complete with a half-mile lane that led to the home. Paul was born with dirt in his DNA, learning to tend acres of land and caring for all of it like it was a child of his own. He may have attended St. Mary’s Catholic grade school and graduated from West Chicago High School in 1954, but Paul got his most coveted education from the school of hard knocks. He learned how to get by without much, fixing what was broken instead of buying new, and planting with a prayer in the spring hoping for an answer come harvest time.

Paul’s life changed when he caught the eye of Mary McLaughlin at the Naperville Dominic Club. The social club set up dances, picnics and more, but it also became the backdrop to the beginning of a 42-year love affair. Paul and Mary were united in marriage October 8, 1982, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Manhattan, IL. They began their new life together on the family farm until 1990. The acres of family farmland were “sold” to make room for DuPage airport. Paul took the proceeds and established their new home in Elburn. Paul never retired, but just slowed down a bit, farming new land in DeKalb, Ogle and Winnebago counties.

Paul was a member and chairman of FSA (Farm Service Agency) formerly known as ASCS, in both Kane and DuPage, the Kane County Farm Bureau, the Naperville Dominic Club and a faithful member of St. Gall Catholic Church in Elburn.

When Paul wasn’t overseeing his land, his eyes dropped to the cards in his Poker hand while playing with friends. He and Mary also enjoyed testing their luck on frequent trips to the riverboats. The Elburn Lions Club Bingo games were forever penned in ink on the calendar, so much so that if they missed a night due to inclement health, flowers were sent to the home to cheer them up until they could make it back to their usual table. Paul and Mary didn’t travel much, but when they did, they took in the vistas of Alaska, cruised to the Caribbean and visited family in Arizona and Florida. Paul was very proud of his farming legacy but his 34 years of sobriety, celebrated on March 2nd of this year, was an accomplishment from which he never shied away. His family and friends will mourn his passing but will still feel his spirit as they look out onto distant acres for years and years to come.

He leaves his loving wife of 42 years, Mary Diehl; one sister, Carol Cibulskis; one brother-in-law, Donald (Mary Agnes) McLaughlin; many nieces and nephews. The family would like to send a special thank you to Ethel Robinson, a caregiver in recent years, to both Paul and Mary.

He joins his parents, Edward and Catherine Diehl; 6 brothers: Elmer (Eleanor) Diehl, Raymond Diehl, Franklin Diehl, George (Ann) Diehl, David (Joyce) Diehl, and Edward (Patricia) Diehl; 4 sisters: Marcia (in infancy) Diehl, Mary Jane (Robert) Nagel, Dorothy (Bernard) Kuhn and Katherine “Toots” (Don) Kohley, who preceded him in death.

Visitation will be from 3-8 p.m., Wednesday, August 27, 2025, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn. A Mass to celebrate his faith will be Thursday, August 28, 2025, begin at 11 a.m. at St. Gall Catholic Church, Elburn. Interment will follow at St. Gall Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the charity of your choice. Memories and tributes may be left on the Conley Funeral Home page, or at www.conleycare.com.

08/22/2025

**Updated, Full Life Story Below**

Life Story and Service Details for
JOHN EDWARD FABRIZIUS

John Edward Fabrizius, age 73, of Virgil, passed away quietly in the late afternoon hours of Thursday, August 21, 2025, at the Inspirations Senior Assisted Living Facility in St. Charles, IL, surrounded by the love and prayers of his family. He was born in Sycamore, Illinois, on January 21, 1952, the son of Michael and Marie (Hardt) Fabrizius.

John grew up on the family farm in Virgil township, the third oldest of nine children. He had an active childhood on the farm, enjoying the companionship of his siblings and sharing in the chores of a large dairy farm. John graduated from S.S. Peter and Paul Grade School in Virgil, Marmion Military Academy in Aurora and Northern Illinois University in DeKalb.

After college John became a full-time dairy farmer on the family farm. In later years John transitioned to concrete construction. He also moonlighted at the Sycamore Speedway on race nights.

John was a religious man who was deeply devoted to his Catholic faith. His daily routine included attending Mass and praying the Rosary. John was an active member of S.S. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, the parish where he had been baptized and confirmed. John served his parish as a lector, religious education teacher and a fund raiser. He connected with his catechism students by playing basketball with them after class, fostering both faith and friendships. He was a prolific seller of raffle tickets in support of the religious education program.

John loved to play cards, especially the game “500” with family and friends. John regularly overbid his hands, which delighted his opponents. John was an avid reader of newspapers and books and became knowledgeable on many topics including 20th century military history. His love of language was evident in his proficiency in German which helped him trace his family roots in Germany and to maintain ties with newfound European friends. John had a rare talent for writing. He often helped his appreciative siblings get a start on their school essays and could craft thoughts and remarks into heartwarming personal messages and eulogies.

John is survived by his seven siblings: Mike Fabrizius, Ron (Laurie) Fabrizius, Gerard Fabrizius, Lorene (Dana) Eckberg, Diane (Dennis Markus) Fabrizius, Chuck (Julie) Fabrizius and Donna (Jim) Homan; a sister-in-law, Randee (Scott) Fabrizius Adams; and many nieces and nephews.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Michael and Marie Fabrizius; and his brother, Kenneth Fabrizius.

Visitation will be held Thursday, August 28, 2025, from 5:00p.m. to 8:00p.m. at Conley Funeral Home at 116 W. Pierce Street, Elburn, IL 60119. A funeral Mass, officiated by Rev. Msgr. Thomas Dzielak, a friend of John, will be held Friday, August 29, 2025, at 10:30a.m. at S.S. Peter and Paul Catholic Church at 5N539 Meredith Road, Virgil, IL 60151. The service will conclude at the parish cemetery and will be followed by lunch at the parish hall next to the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials in John’s name be given to The Poor Household of God (a 501c3 charitable organization). Donations may be mailed to The Poor Household of God, P.O. Box 4482, Wheaton, IL 60189 or submitted at www.poorhouseholdofgod.org. Memorials may be mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, IL 60119. Tributes and memories may be left on the Conley Funeral Home page or at www.conleycare.com.

08/14/2025

Life Story and Service Details for
ALEX CARABALLO

Alex Caraballo, age 35, of Elburn, passed away suddenly, Tuesday, August 12, 2025. He leaves a trail of tears and broken hearts as his family and friends honor and remember his legacy.

He was born January 3, 1990, in Dallas, Texas.

Alex was five years old when his family moved from Texas to Illinois. They settled in Berwyn for a time and attended local schools. Alex graduated from Morton West High School with the class of 2008 and continued his education at Morton College.

Alex and Theresa Jones found each other online. What started as flirting became much deeper, and soon their love in real life brought them to the altar. They were united in marriage on June 22, 2018 in St. Charles. They began their new life together in Hampshire, IL, for several years before moving to Joliet for a time. Elburn became their home in 2022.

Alex worked security as a correctional officer at the Illinois Department of Corrections.

Alex never turned down an opportunity to watch Scooby Doo, The Simpsons, Family Guy, and wrestling, but his all-time favorite movie to quote lines from was Goonies. He loved to travel with his family making trips to Colorado, Texas, and Florida to name a few. Cruises to Puerto Rico made millions of unforgettable memories. Video games were always on tap and nothing said comfy like being wrapped in a bunch of blankets. Some of Alex’s biggest smiles came from coaching softball, especially when the girls called him “Coach Bestie”. Everything paled in comparison to the love he had for all his children. There was nothing he wouldn’t do to make sure they were happy and living life to the fullest.

He leaves his loving wife Theresa Caraballo; five children: Gianna, Jeremy, Juni, Jamie and Lorenzo; his father William “Butch” Caraballo, his mother Rose Caraballo; one stepmother, Wanda Saez; two siblings: Will (Claudia) Caraballo Jr. and Angie (Alex) Gauna; and a “brother” Paul Bernaschina,; many nieces, nephews and a family of friends that will miss him dearly.

He is preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Miguel Angel and Cecilia Caraballo, his maternal grandparents, Serafin and Carmen Herrera; his brother Kevin Caraballo; one aunt, Tia Nelly and an uncle Angel Miguel Caraballo.

Visitation will be from 5-8 p.m., Monday, August 18, 2025, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn, IL 60119. Private family burial will follow at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in Alex’s name. Checks may be made to the “Alexander Caraballo Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address, the Conley Funeral Home page, or at www.conleycare.com.

08/02/2025

Life Story and Service Details for
DEBORAH K. DRENDEL

Deborah K. Drendel, age 73, of Hudson, FL, formerly of Sugar Grove, IL, walked through the Heavenly gates on July 18, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was born July 8, 1952, in Aurora, IL, to proud and loving parents, Richard “Pa” and LeDonne “Ma” Wilson.

Deb grew up in Montgomery and attended local schools. She graduated from East Aurora High School with the class of 1970.
Deb met the love of her life at the Big Boy restaurant on Lake Street in Aurora. Lee A. Drendel was in a car with friends and caught her eye. Introductions soon followed and a love story that would last 52 years began. They were united in marriage on June 16, 1973 in Aurora. Deb and Lee began their new life in Montgomery and later settled in Sugar Grove. There they continued to raise a family of two daughters, making memories on every block. 31 years would pass before a permanent residence would be established in Hudson, FL in 2019.

After high school Deb attended Radiologic Technologist school at Copley Hospital earning her X-Ray tech degree. She used this degree throughout her entire career. Deb had the opportunity later in her career to travel and teach many different aspects of x-ray until her retirement in 2010.

Deb was a founding member of the Sugar Grove Fire Department Women’s Auxiliary.

The travel bug bit Deb early as her family vacationed in many spots across the country. Her favorites included any destination near water: beaches, pools, rivers, lakes and oceans all called to her soul and spoke to her with every lapping wave or rippling current. Later in life, Yellowstone became a regular destination but no matter how many times she packed and unpacked a suitcase, she looked forward to the next adventure. Deb loved her “toys” and whether it was dodging snowflakes on her snowmobile, eating up the miles on her Harley Davidson or skimming the water on Pa’s Thompson ski boat, Deb’s beaming smile could not be contained. Their summer cottage on the Mississippi near Thomson, IL made a wonderful retreat, but Deb could also lose herself in the pages of a good romance novel as well. Though her heart was full of family, and friends, she always made room for at least one or two dogs, plus other countless pets that graced her hearth and home over the years. Deb had an indefatigable spirit whose strength never wavered despite harrowing challenges over the years, especially the last few months. The unique mark she made on the hearts of all who knew and loved her will remain forever.

She leaves her loving husband of 52 years, Lee A. Drendel; two daughters: Jaclyn K. Edlund and her son, Frank L. Edlund, and Alyson M. (Matt) Ruggie and their children, Aubree C. and Maverick A. Ruggie, Also to include chosen family and countless friends.

She joins her parents, Richard and LeDonne Wilson who preceded her in death.

A memorial celebration of life will be held at Lions Park, 500 Filmore St., Elburn, IL 60119, on Saturday, September 20, 2025. Visitation will be from 1-4 p.m. but will pause at 2 p.m. for a brief service.

Donations may be made in her memory at Anderson Humane, a local animal shelter in South Elgin, IL. Please visit https://ahconnects.org/donate to help a charity so close to Deb’s heart. Memories and tributes may be left on the Conley Funeral Home page, or at www.conleycare.com.

As this celebration of life has been delayed, the family asks if you wish to send flowers, please use Wild Orchid, so it will be assured your arrangement will arrive safely at the correct location and date.

Wild Orchid 107 Valley Drive, Elburn, IL 60119 phone number 630-849-9036 email hello@wildorc.com

07/28/2025

Life Story and Service Details for
CLARENCE R. JANECEK JR.

Clarence R. Janecek Jr., 89, of Maple Park, Illinois, passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of his family on Monday, July 28, 2025. He was born in his family’s home in Chicago, Illinois on April 10, 1936, to parents, Clarence Sr. and Marie Janecek.

Clarence grew up in Berwyn, Illinois alongside his younger brother and sister. He attended local schools, graduating from Morton High School, class of 1954. After graduating from high school, Clarence attended Morton Junior College where he studied architecture and graduated with his degree in 1956.

When Clarence was 26, he was invited to the wedding of one of his friends. Fate had its own plan for Clarence that night when he would ask Darlene Nemec to dance. She happened to be attending the wedding because her parents were friends with the bride’s parents. Clarence and Darlene would dance the Jitterbug and Darlene was astonished at how good of a dancer he was. For three years, the two would go on dates periodically, it wasn’t until one night, at the end of their date, Darlene said she needed to head in because she had to be up early the next day. Clarence was intrigued as to why she needed to be up early and when he inquired Darlene starkly replied that she had a hair appointment in the morning in preparation for a date she was going on the next night. Well that just about drove Clarence crazy. He was done sitting on his laurels and dragging things out; just a few days later he would ask Darlene to marry him. They were married on March 19, 1966, at the Calvary Methodist Church in Cicero, Illinois. At nearly 400 guests, their guest list was extensive, between both of their families and all of Clarence’s work associates. That day was the beginning of a strong, committed marriage, brimming with love, laughter, and loyalty.

Clarence was fascinated by building from a young age. His Uncle Frank had a construction business and would often bring Clarence along with him to work. Frank was Clarence’s mentor and supported his endeavors in construction throughout his life, even so far as to help Clarence fund the opening of his own construction business. At the age of 20, Clarence started his construction business and named it Janecek Builders. At the start of his business, it was just him and one other builder, and they focused primarily on building homes. Clarence would stay in the residential building sector for the entirety of his career. That would not be his only business, he owned and operated many building businesses over the years. He worked with his brother Bill for over 25 years building homes together. They were immensely successful and Clarence had overwhelming pride for the homes that him and his brother built. Clarence loved what he did and never wanted to put his tools down. Over his career he designed and built hundreds of homes. He would continue building into his early 80’s, at which time his projects switched from building homes, to projects that he built at home.

Clarence was a proud member of the Kaneland Boosters Club and donated many hours of his time to their projects. One project he was a part of was The Lights for the Knights, which helped raise funds to get Kaneland High School lights for their football field so they could have nighttime games.

Clarence always knew how to get the room laughing. You could always count on him for a good joke. He loved to play practical jokes on his friends and family. He never knew a stranger and could strike up a conversation with anyone. All he wanted was to make his family and friends happy and did so without fail. Even as an adult, he had an amazing imagination and used it to find creative solutions to life’s difficult situations. He was a grandfather or “Papa” to many people well beyond his own grandchildren. He loved to travel and traveled with Darlene to destinations all over the world, but his favorite place to travel to was Mexico. After hearing about Mexico from his parents as a child he dreamt of traveling there, so as soon as he was old enough, he headed down there and never wanted to leave. The culture and the sights were some of his favorites in the world. He was born to be a grandpa, his grandchildren called him Papa and boy was he a proud Papa. He and Darlene spent many summers with the grandchildren at their cottage in Cable, Wisconsin situated on Crystal Lake. His grandchildren have many happy memories of fishing with their Papa on the pontoon boat. Clarence really was a one-of-a-kind person, to never be replicated. His family and friends will surely miss his ear-to-ear smile and contagious laughter.

Clarence is survived by his beloved wife of 59 years, Darlene Janecek; his children: Todd Janecek and Ted (Ann) Janecek; his grandchildren: Clarence Janecek IV, Cailee Janecek, Emily Janecek, Marisa Janecek, and Brandon Janecek; his brother Bill Janecek, many cousins, nieces and nephews, and a whole countryside of friends.

He is reunited with his parents, Clarence Sr. and Marie Janecek; his son Tres Janecek; and his sister, Sharon Caprini.

A Celebration of Life with be held at a later date, to be announced.

Memorials may be mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address, the Conley Funeral Home page, or at www.conleycare.com.

Conley Funeral Home

09/07/2025

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09/01/2025

08/30/2025

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