John Reale

John A. Reale, 84, of Rantoul,  passed away on Dec. 16, 2023, in Rantoul.

He was born on March 3, 1939, in Hartford, Conn., to the late Gino and Frances Reale. John married Anne Bolser on May 16, 1959, in Rantoul. She preceded him, as did his son, Jeffery and his brother, Rick Reale.

John proudly served in the Air Force from 1956 to 1960, and he was a valued member of the Village of Rantoul for over thirty years. He retired in 1999 as the Superintendent of the Water and Wastewater Department. John was dedicated to his work and always ensured things were done right the first time.

In his personal life, John was a man of strong faith and was a member of St. Malachy Catholic Church as well as a member of the Knights of Columbus, 3rd Degree. He loved his family and friends dearly and maintained lasting friendships from Mount Carmel, Conn., grade school and Meriden High School. John developed close relationships with his fellow Village of Rantoul employees and was always there to support his family in every way possible. He had a good sense of humor, was very smart and had a practical approach to life.

John is survived by his daughter-in-law Marilyn; five daughters, Frances (Terry), Cathy (Kevin), Mary, Gina (Eric) and Susan; and his son, John, Jr. (Ann). He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren; great-grandchildren; nieces; nephews; sisters-in-law; and brothers-in-law.

Outside of work and family, John served on the Board of Directors for Community Plus Federal Credit Union. He enjoyed bowling, was an avid reader and took great pleasure in supporting his grandchildren in their many school activities.

A funeral mass will be held at 10:30 a.m., Friday, Dec, 22, 2023, at St. Malachy Catholic Church, 311 E. Grove, Rantoul. Father Joel Phelps will officiate. There will be a gathering of friends and family from 9 to 10 a.m. at Lux Memorial Chapel, 1551 E. Grove, Rantoul just prior to the service.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Malachy Church or the Champaign Urbana Humane Society.

John will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him. May his soul rest in eternal peace.