John Nicholas Kapotas

John N. Kapotas, of Rockford, Illinois, passed away peacefully on November 23, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, John lived a life defined by hard work and an unshakable sense of purpose.

Born on December 9, 1940, in the small village of Agios Vasilios near Patras, Greece, John was the youngest of six siblings. Growing up in post-war Greece, he learned the value of perseverance early on. In 1965, seeking better opportunities for his family, he emigrated to the United States with nothing in his pocket and a dream of building a better life.

Settling in Rockford, John worked as a truck driver and landscaper, eventually opening his own construction business. 

Despite the long hours, John was deeply committed to his family. He and his wife, Janet, whom he met on a blind date in 1965, built a life centered on love, tradition, and faith. Together, they raised four children, instilling in them the values of integrity, humility, and resilience.

John was a proud American citizen, but he never forgot his roots. He was an active member of the Greek Orthodox Church and served as a chanter for several parishes in the Chicago Diocese throughout the past decades. He had a beautiful voice. 

John is survived by his wife of 59 years, Janet; his children, Kanella, Katerina, Nicholas (Angela), and Alexander; and his eight grandchildren, Eleanna, Irini, George, Daphne, Jordyn, Kalista, Naya, and Giannis who were the joy of his life. He is also survived by his many nieces and nephews in America and Greece.

John’s life was a testament to the immigrant experience: a journey of courage, sacrifice, and triumph. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

A visitation will be held on November 27, 2024, at St. Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church in Rockford, followed by a funeral service. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Sts. Constantine and Helen Church or to K.O.P.I. (knockoutparkinsonsinc.org), a fitness program that brought John much joy during his battle with Parkinson's Disease.