John F. Urnikis

John F. Urnikis, “Hotdog”, 69 of Hennepin, passed away on March 30, 2023, at home, surrounded by his loving family, after a long struggle with Parkinson’s disease.  John was born in Spring Valley on August 26, 1953 to Catherine (Compasso) and Walter Urnikis.  He married Debbie Keenan and they have been together for 34 years.

Upon graduation from Putnam County High School in 1971, John opened “Hotdogs Pizza & Ice Cream Parlor”, pizza in which is still talked about today.  He retired from Local 150 Operating Engineers after 35 years and he also worked as Hennepin Township Road Commissioner from 1997 – 2015.

John was a man of true integrity.  His passions in life were hunting, fishing, and spending time with his wife, Debbie.  He was a simple man of pocket T’s and flannel shirts.

John is survived by his wife Debbie of Hennepin; daughters, Megan Foster (Mike Starjak) of Plainfield, Becky (Aaron) Bezely of Tiskilwa, Nicole Hess (Marvin Wilts) of Hennepin, Jessica Smelz (Nick Gorski) of Hennepin, and nine grandchildren; Mason, Sydney, Jewels, Hunter, Hannah, McKenna, Izzy, Brandon and Brooklyn, that will always love and miss their papa.  Also surviving are sisters, Kathy (Ralph) Gensini, Peggy (Dick) Lami, Shelby (Lisa) Sheppard and Teresa Rencher; brothers, Neal Glover and Scott (Peg) Urnikis.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to his family.

Visitation will be from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Monday, April 3, 2023 at Dysart – Cofoid Funeral Chapel, Granville.  Cremation rites will follow.

A special thanks to our wonderful hospice team; Hannah, Kelly, and Elaine from In-Home Care Connection.

Online condolences may be made to his family at www.dcfunerals.com

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