John Langeland

John Langeland, age 100, U.S. Army WWII Veteran, passed away on March 19, 2023. Beloved husband for 60 years to the late Rika Langeland, nee Solle (2009). Devoted father of Theresa (Ken) Sobczak, David (Carol), Wayne (Pat), and the late Shirley Dekker. Loving grandfather of Timothy (Jody) Sobczak and Michael Sobczak, Matthew Langeland and Sarah (Brian) Cobus, Geneva Langeland and Monica (Nicholas) Vandenlangenberg. Cherished great-grandfather of Caden, Lincoln, and Sage Sobczak. Preceded in death by his siblings and their spouses: Angeline (Simon) Westra, Albert (Marguerite), Marie, Elizabeth (Elmer)Aggen, Hilda (Donald) Ouwenga, Andrew, and George. Dearest in-law and uncle of many nieces and nephews of the Solle family.

John was a man of many gifts and talents. During his working days he operated a milk delivery business and a landscaping business; worked at the Solle family farm market; sold lawn and garden equipment at Montgomery Ward; and sold and installed fences. Outside of work he loved woodworking, gardening, and helping people. John volunteered for many years in a Friendship Ministry working with mentally disabled adults. After he retired from work, John volunteered at the Pass it On Thrift Store repairing and refurbishing furniture. John loved to grow African violets and share them with others. John learned to bake in his later years and in his retirement home, even at age 99, John baked carrot muffins to share with the other residents and the staff.

Visitation Saturday, March 25, 2023, from 12:00 Noon until time of Funeral Service at 1:00 PM at Colonial Chapel, 15525 S. 73rd Ave. (155th/Wheeler Dr. & Harlem), Orland Park, IL. Private interment at Chapel Hill Gardens South, Oak Lawn, IL.

Below is a photo tribute celebrating John's life.



Memorials to Roseland Christian Ministries, 10858 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60628 are appreciated.

Express your thoughts and condolences at colonialchapel.com 708-532-5400