John "Jack" I. Birkholz

John "Jack" Irvin Birkholz Jr., 81, of German Valley, IL passed away Friday March 24, 2023 at Manor Court of Liberty Village in Freeport, IL. He was born January 8, 1942 in Stephenson County to John and Amanda (Schoonhoven) Birkholz. On September 7, 1991 he married Marsha Manus at First Baptist Church in Freeport, IL. Jack's employment included farming, truck driving, milk hauling, and most recently driving school bus for Forreston and Eastland Schools. Jack had a very strong faith and he sang in the church choir. His faith carried him through the end of his life. He enjoyed Christian country music. Sports was a big part of Jack's life, especially the Forreston Cardinals and he loved attending Cardinal games. Jack was also an avid Chicago Cubs, Bears and Bulls fan. Family was important to Jack and he loved to gather with family and friends.

Jack is survived by his wife Marsha; children Rachel (Darrell) Osterloo, Mike (Mary Jo) Birkholz, Angela (Russ) Medenblik, and Paul (Sarah) Mullen; grandchildren Nathaniel Osterloo, Nicholas Osterloo, Brad (Natalie) Birkholz, Emilie (Justin) Magana, Mallory Birkholz, Abbi Medenblik, Ava Medenblik, Anna Mullen, and Joshua Mullen; three great-grandchildren; siblings Joyce (Steve) Wubbena and Linda (Jon) Craft; and several cousins, nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents John and Amanda Birkholz.

A memorial service will be held 11:00 A.M. Saturday April 15, 2023 at Grace Valley Christian Reformed Church with Rev. Eric Schlukebir and Rev. Jerry Birkholz officiating. A visitation will be held from 10:00 A.M. until the time of service. Burial will be in Grace Valley Christian Reformed Church Cemetery. A memorial has been established for the Forreston School Athletic Booster Club.