John F. Piper, age 66, passed away peacefully at home early December 20, 2022.

John was born December 31, 1955, in Harvey, Illinois, the son of Fred and Nina (Roberson) Piper. He grew up in Richton Park, Illinois and attended Rich East High School and South Suburban Community College. John worked for Illinois Central/ CN Railroad for 42 years as a machinist. He enjoyed working on the Executive Train and the Santa Train for many years.

After meeting Connie Woehlbrandt at Black Bear Lodge on the Chippewa Flowage, they were married June 4, 1988. They moved to Frankfort, Illinois and spent every summer vacation and Christmas holiday in Hayward until John retired from the railroad in December of 2015.

John loved the outdoors. He enjoyed camping, hiking, campfires, canoeing, white-water rafting, and especially fishing. He was a Boy Scout and Venture Crew leader for 20 years. He influenced the lives of countless young men and women. Many of his Eagle Scouts still came to Wisconsin to visit.

Since moving to Hayward, John was a member of Element Church and Railroaders in the Community. He volunteered in the Food4Kids program at the Hayward Community Food Shelf and supported the Northwoods Humane Society. John was a true friend to many in the area and was never too busy to help others.

He is survived by his wife, Connie; his sons, Jordan Piper of Frankfort, Illinois and Jarret (Danielle) Piper of Elburn, Illinois; his brother, Carl Piper of Manteno, Illinois; and his faithful four-legged friend, Raven.

John was preceded in death by his parents and his infant brother, Frederick Piper.

No funeral service was held at John’s request. Any donations can be made to the Hayward Community Food Shelf or Northwoods Humane Society.

Last Update: Jan 09, 2023 2:49 pm CST