John “Jack’ Patrick Finnegan, 86, of Ottawa, passed away on Wednesday, February 12, 2025 at his home in Ottawa.
Memorial services will be held 11 a.m. Friday, February 21, 2025 at the First Presbyterian Church in Ottawa with Rev. John Walker, pastor officiating. Burial will follow at Oakwood Memorial Park, Ottawa. Visitation will be from 10 to 11 a.m. Friday at the Church. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Mueller Funeral Home, Ottawa.
Mr. Finnegan was born on August 20, 1938 in Streator to Thomas Arthur and Anna (Kolischan) Finnegan. He married Sandra (Vincent) Olson on April 4, 1997. Jack retired as an electrical supervisor at Libby Owens Ford after 37 years of employment. He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Ottawa where he served as an elder and leader of the bible study at the church for many years that became a close group. Jack enjoyed working in his shop, birdwatching, storytelling, and making birdhouses (over 200).
Jack and Sandy enjoyed many years of traveling together, visiting family and new places.
Jack never smiled so brightly than when he was involved in or was watching his grandchildren’s activities. Jack was known as a master of all things throughout his life, his faithful heart and capable hands helped many.
He is survived by his wife; two sons, Kevin (Veronica) Finnegan, Kyle Finnegan; four daughters, Kelly Finnegan, Krista (Bob) Brown, Tracy (Chris) Behrens and Lori Olson; four grandchildren, Tyler, Austin, and Lexi Finnegan and Ryan Behrens; and 5 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and three brothers, Thomas, Francis and Edward Finnegan.
Memorial contributions may be directed to the First Presbyterian Church, Ottawa or to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.
Jack was laid to rest in the Garden of The Last Supper at Oakwood Memorial Park.