John W Firlit

John W. Firlit 90 of Crete IL a retired Chicago school teacher for 35 years and a veteran of the US Air Force died Thursday Oct 11, 2012. Born in Chicago on July 4, 1922, he attended St John of God Elementary School, Tilden Tech High School, Chicago Teachers College (Bachelors in Education), Loyola University (Masters). Enlisted AAC Sept 1942, Commissioned 2nd Lt Pilot 1944, retired Lt Col USAF in 1969. Flew 31 bombing missions over enemy territory in a B17 including a safe landing on one engine. Awarded the Air Medal with 4 Oak Leaf Clusters, and European Theater with 3 battle stars. Also flew air sea rescue in Japan. Son of Jan and Martha Firlit, brother to Stella Sage (deceased), and Rose Firlit. Devoted husband of 55 years to the late Vivian (Thompson) deceased 2006. Loving father of Vivianjune Keznoff (Carl), Marylynn Birtciel (William), and Paul (Lora), 17 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. Member of St James Parish for over 40 years. Visitation Sunday October 14th from 2:00 until 7:00 P.M. at The Smits Funeral Homes-Steger Memorial Chapel 3045 Chicago Rd. Steger, IL. Mass of Christian Burial, Monday 9:30 A.M. directly at St. James Catholic Church - Sauk Village, IL. Interment Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery - Elwood, IL. More info at 708-755-6100 or www.SMITSFH.com.