Paul M. Jargstorf, 73, of Johnsburg, Illinois, died on Jan. 17, 2021 in McHenry. Born on Oct. 3, 1947 in Melrose Park, the son of Henry and Barbara Jargstorf, he grew up at 1440 Circle Ave. He attended Betsy Ross Elementary School and graduated from Proviso East in 1965. He played Pony League and then softball for many years in Forest Park. He was well known for his work in the small parks around town.
On March 1, 1969, he married the love of his life, Karen Thorson, at St. Louise de Marillac Catholic Church in LaGrange Park.
A teacher at Carl Sandburg Junior High in Rolling Meadows for 35 years, he coached various sport teams, as well as at Johnsburg High School. He was a board member and coach in the Johnsburg Pigtail League for many years. An avid fan of the Chicago White Sox, Bears and Blackhawks, when he was not cheering for one of this favorite teams, he enjoyed reading, bonfires and traveling. He was affectionately known by many as Mr. J or Coach J.
Paul is survived by Karen, his wife of 51 years; his four children, Paula (Tim) Adamson, Michelle Jargstorf, Paul Jargstorf and Christopher (Melissa) Jargstorf; his grandchildren, Chelsea, Raymond, Colton, Presley, Brady, Olivia, Caroline and Dylan; his sister, Linda Cascio; his sister in-law, Kathleen Thorson; his nieces and nephews, Debra, Cheryl, Ron, Mark (Louise), Michael (Debbie) and David; as well as many grandnieces, nephews and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents Henry and Barbara Jargstorf; his brother, Henry (Linnea) Jargstorf, and his sister, Carol Jargstorf.
Paul will be laid to rest in a private ceremony at Chapel Hill Garden West Cemetery in Oakbrook Terrace on Monday, Jan. 25, 2021.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to the University of Wisconsin Hospital Transplant Program www.uwhealth.org/givehope.
