John Francis Scanlon, age 55, passed away on Saturday June 20, 2026. He was the adored and devoted son of the late Eileen (nee Connolly) and James “Shay” Scanlon (native of Cabra, County Dublin, Ireland). A dear nephew and treasured cousin to all the family. Much loved godfather to Molly Sheehy and Shea McCarthy. John was a treasured friend to the legions of people he met throughout his life, starting on Lakewood Avenue.

John was a graduate of St. Gertrude Grammar School and St. Patrick High School in Chicago, and St. Mary’s College in Winona, Minnesota. He was a retired probationary officer of 30 years. John was also a highly respected and valued IHSA referee for many years. As the Irish would say, “If you were lucky enough to know John, you were lucky enough.”

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the John Francis Scanlon Scholarship Fund at St. Patrick’s High School for deserving Shamrocks.

Wake to be held at Cooney Funeral Home, 625 Busse Highway in Park Ridge on Friday June 26, 2026 from 3:00 – 8:00 pm. Please gather at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday June 27, 2026 at St. Gertrude’s Catholic Church, 1420 West Granville Ave in Chicago. Internment private.