John D. Prebstle

It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of John Prebstle, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, who left us unexpectedly on Sunday, November 3, 2024. Born on January 18, 1945 in Chicago Heights, John always wanted to join the service full-time, but instead dedicated six years of his life to the Army Reserves in order to care for his mom. His commitment to duty and those near to him remained unwavering throughout his life.

 Over 40 years ago, John met the love of his life, Ursula, and together they built a beautiful blended family. Embracing Ursula and her three sons as his own, alongside his two sons, he became the embodiment of a "father who steps up." John never made anyone feel like an outsider or a burden. His actions spoke volumes about his character—reliable, kind-hearted, and even-keeled.

 He will be missed by his son Eric and the guys at Trinity's Oakview house for those with special needs. John would make minor repairs, plant trees, or spray paint little gnomes that 'looked like one of the guys'.

 John was a true enthusiast of classic cars, Corvettes, baseball and especially the Chicago White Sox. He retired 23 years ago as a warehouse manager with AT&T. He then worked 4 different jobs with the last 12 years at Mannheim Auto Auction. He loved working with 'the guys' and finding miscellaneous Christmas raffle items with the things left behind in the cars that they sold.

 His family and friends will remember his detailed emails, comprehensive itineraries, and well planned road trips. They'll remember his dry sense of humor and his personalized license plates bearing messages such as "HO HO HO," "X-RATING," and the recent "UH OH" on a Chicago Bears vanity plate. 

 He found joy in beautifully curating his yard with specific plants and decor while simultaneously protecting his turf by safely relocating over 100 squirrels and other yard varmints to the nearby woods.

 John is preceded in death by his parents Clarence and Harriet and his sister Merry Lou Hendrickson (Ben). He is survived by his devoted wife, Ursula; his sons, Karl (Shannon), Eric, Scott (Carrie), Chris (Katrina), Mike (Jami); his grandchildren, Elizabeth, Megan (Brandon), Danielle, Jessica, Hannah, Zachary, Kassidy, Samantha, Kamryn, Derek, Makayla, and Brooklyn; and great-grandson Issac. The list of people who have depended on him is long, a reflection of the countless lives he touched with his generosity and love.

 In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Trinity Services Oakview Home indicate 'In Memory of John Prebstle' to benefit the Oakview Home in his honor. It's what John would want.

Rest in peace, John. You are our Last Stormtrooper, deeply missed and forever remembered.