Jon Paul Santarelli, 53, of Chicago, died on July 21, 2018. He was the son of Frank and Dorene (Seymour) Santarelli.
He graduated from Tremper High School and the University of South Florida, then earned a master’s degree from DePaul University in Chicago. He was employed by Molex in Lisle, IL as a project manager.
Jon was a true athlete. He was passionate about sailing. He began his life on earth being baptized with water and entered his eternal life in the water. On July 21, 2018, he died when he was lost overboard during the Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac Island. Jon competed in marathons, triathlons, and a Half Iron Man. Also, a motorcycle enthusiast, Jon rode all over the United States and Canada, and completed an Iron Butt Challenge. He loved to photograph his travels around the world. He was an avid fan of the Chicago Cubs, Bears, and Blackhawks. Jon will be remembered for his love of life and his never-ending sense of adventure.
Jon is survived by his parents, Frank and Dorene; a brother, Jeff Santarelli; a sister, Jill (Rob) Francis; and nephew, Ryan Santarelli. He is further survived by aunts, uncles, cousins, and many, many friends.
The family of Jon wishes to extend their sincere thanks to the U.S. Coastguard, Chicago Fire Department, Chicago Police Marine Unit, Bruce’s Legacy, Chicago Yacht Club, competitors, and the entire boating community who gave their time and efforts in search and recovery.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, August 4th, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 7400 39th Avenue, Kenosha, WI, from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. followed by a memorial Mass. Interment will be private. A memorial night for Jon is planned on Thursday, August 2nd, at Derno’s, 506 W Diversey Parkway, in Chicago, IL, at 6:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial remembrances may be made to Bruce’s Legacy, 942 Red Iron Rd, Black River Falls, WI 54615 or at www.bruceslegacy.com.
Proko Funeral Home & Crematory
5111-60th Street
Kenosha, WI 53144
Phone: (262) 654-3533
Visit & Sign Jon’s Online Memorial Book at:
www.prokofuneralhome.com
To share a memory or send a condolence gift, please visit the Official Obituary of Jon Paul Santarelli hosted by Proko Funeral Home.
Event information can be found on the Official Obituary of Jon Paul Santarelli.