John “Bud” Van Arkel, 80, of Darien, formerly of Berwyn and Chicago, passed away on Saturday, March 16, at his home, surrounded by his family. His memory will live on in the hearts of his wife of 53 years, Jean nee Razmus; his children, Betty (Joe Sharp), Sandy (John Heron) Van Arkel, and Tom (Chyrisse); his grandchildren, Alex and Laura Sharp, Garrett and Kirsten Van Arkel, and many nieces and nephews; he was predeceased by his brother, Donald “Johnnie”, his sisters, Alice (William) Sheehey, Margaret (John) Woods, and Dorothy (Charles) Desch, the late Madeline (the late Ted) Hamer, Johanna “Babe” and Sister Mary Acquin, O.S.F. He grew up on the family farm in what is now Merrionett Park and continued to plant crops on the last remaining acres at 115th and Kedzie until the 1960’s. He was a valued employee of White Way Sign Co. for 48 years and was often photographed by The Tribune and other newspapers while installing signs on Chicago’s buildings, including Chicago Theatre, Wrigley Field, Comiskey Park, and the Chicago Stadium. His son recalls that he especially enjoyed the tall buildings because working on them made him feel closer to God. He enjoyed spoiling children and amazing them by flexing his biceps. He loved telling jokes, playing poker, hunting, and a good cold brew. He was seldom seen without his white truck and trademark white hat and was well known for his firm handshake and arm-wrestling prowess. Those who were fortunate enough to call him friend are too numerous to list. He taught us how to live with gusto and how to die with dignity and courage. In lieu of flowers, please honor his memory with donations to United Parkinson Foundation, 833 W. Washington, Chicago IL 60607, and by treasuring family and friends as he did. Funeral Wednesday, 8:45 a.m. from Hills Funeral Home, LTD, 10201 S. Roberts Road (8000 W), Palos Hills to Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church, 8404 S. Cass Ave., Darien, IL. Mass at 10 a.m. Interment private. Visitation Tuesday 2 to 9 p.m. Info 708-598-5880
