John "Jack" Francis Degnan Jr.

John Francis "Jack" Degnan Jr., 74, of Dyer, Indiana, passed away on March 18, 2025 peacefully with his wife by his side.  

Jack is survived by his loving wife, Michelle Layman, who was by his side through life's joys and challenges.  He was a devoted father to Jack Degnan III (Courtney), Matt Degnan, and Becky Lidster (Dave).  He was also a proud stepfather to Nathan Layman (Morgan Adelman) and proud grandfather to Sloan and JD Degnan.

He will be deeply missed by his brother Mark Degnan (Marie) and sister-in-law Mimi Dzyacky.  His many nieces, nephews, and cousins will fondly remember many holidays and summers spent at the cabin.

Jack was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Robin Degnan, his parents John Sr. and Bev Degnan, his brother Tim Degnan, and his sister-in-law Chrissy Degnan.

Family was always at the heart of his life.  He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, and his family remained his top priority throughout his years.  He is remembered fondly by those who loved him, and his legacy lives on in the cherished memories of his loved ones.

A lifelong baseball enthusiast, Jack also devoted many years to coaching local youth teams.  His ability to mentor young players- teaching them not only the fundamentals of the game but also valuable life lessons in teamwork and perseverance- will be remembered by all those whose lives he touched on the diamond.

For over thirty years, Jack was a proud member of the Whiting Refinery team.  His work ethic, integrity, and friendly demeanor earned him the respect of his colleagues.  His dedication both on and off the job left an indelible mark on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.  

A lover of poetry, Jack found inspiration in Rudyard Kipling's poem "If-", striving to live by its words of perseverance, integrity, and humility.  His legacy of love, dedication, and quiet strength will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. 

A memorial visitation will be held on Tuesday, March 25th at Fagen-Miller Funeral Home, 8580 Wicker Ave. in St. John, from 4:00-8:00 P.M.  Mass will be held on Wednesday, March 26th, directly at St. Joseph Church, 440 Joliet St. in Dyer, at 10:30 A.M.  Burial to follow at St. John/St. Joseph Cemetery in Hammond.  

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Huntington's Disease Society of America (HDSA).

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