Eli John DeLaney

Park Forest resident (former Chicago Heights resident)Eli “John” DeLaney, 85, passed away on May 28, 2023. Active in Knights of Columbus, the Holy Name Society and usher at St. Agnes Parish prior to illness, he was known by all who encountered him as a kind, generous, and caring man. Always willing to lend a hand helping others, he always made time for his family and friends. When his wife, Pat was alive, they were both active in the Chicago Heights Moose Lodge #828 and Women of the Moose Chapter #675.  He lived to help others and enjoyed watching old movies and of course, “The Three Stooges”. His pride and joy was his family and he never let anyone leave his presence without an “I love you”. He was also one of the most selfless human beings out there and he will be missed by everyone who knew him. 

He is survived by his son, Mike DeLaney of Park Forest, his daughter Ann (Ed) Swayka of St. Augustine, FL, his granddaughters, Sarah (Rob) Callow of St. Augustine and Patti (Joseph) Mensah of Milwaukee, WI as well as six great grandchildren, Makennah Callow, Kameryn Santiago, Dylan Callow, RJ Callow, Kassidy Moody and Kamille Moody. His wife, Pat DeLaney passed away 34 years ago and we are sure she was waiting for him at the pearly gates of heaven to welcome him home.

Visitation will be held at Lain-Sullivan Funeral Chapel, 50 Westwood Drive, Park Forest, IL on Friday, June 9, 2023 from 3:00pm to 6:00pm. The funeral mass will be held at Our Lady of the Heights, St. Agnes Catholic Church, 1501 Chicago Road, Chicago Heights, IL on Saturday, June 10, 2023 at 9:00am with burial at Assumption Cemetery in Glenwood. 

The family wishes to thank Oasis Hospice in Mokena for their support. In lieu of flowers, donations to Oasis Hospice in Mokena, Catholic Charities or the American Cancer Society are welcomed.