John T. Patrou passed away at the age of 97 on February 2, 2023, after a brief illness. He was born on September 2, 1925, in Webster City, Iowa. He was the first- born son of Theodore and Elpis (Agiou) Patrou.  After graduating from high school, he enlisted in the Navy during World War II, serving in the Pacific. Upon his honorable discharge, he returned to his hometown to re-unite with his younger brother, George. The brothers came to Freeport, Illinois, to work at the Licondo Hotel (then on the corner of Main St & Galena Ave). Under the supervision of their uncle, Tony Agiou, they learned the restaurant business.

In 1946-47, John was to meet and marry his future bride of 57 years—Helen (nee) Chiames. She was the elder daughter of John and Vasileke Chiames, owners and operators of the Freeport Lunch (then on the corner of Stephenson & Van Buren St.). Brother George returned to Webster City and re-joined the rest of the Patrou clan, working as a bartender and realtor, shortly before his passing in 2009.

John graduated from business college and was hired by General Casualty Insurance Co. president, George Schirmer, to work as a Claims underwriter. John's sterling, 40+ year career of dedication & work ethic, led him from department manager to vice-president of the Freeport branch.  He was also a dedicated Noon Rotary member in Freeport.

John and Helen were inseparable partners for 57 years until her passing in 2004. The couple were blessed with two children—Ted (Madison, WI) and Liz (Long Beach, CA). John was an avid golfer, excelling in several city tournament events at Park Hills, and the Freeport C.C., where he was a long-time member. He was proud of making several "holes-in-one" throughout the years.

John was also a member of American Legion Auxiliary, Eagles Club and VFW. His passion was researching the stock market. Both he and Helen enjoyed a wide circle of friends and acquaintances. They travelled frequently upon his retirement and wintered in Lakeland, FL for many years.

He is survived by two half-sisters—Antonia Parrish (Warrensville, IL) and Mary Kent (Clarksville, IA), his children Ted & Liz, grandson Moses (Dixie) & great-granddaughter, Sariah Patrou (Staten Island, N.Y.).

There will be no visitation or funeral. The Patrou family would like to thank those who cared for him at Winn-Prairie, ProMedica/Heartland Hospice, Father Athanasios, and the many others who made his final days comfortable. If you wish to donate, please send it to:

Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church

607 S. Galena Ave.

Freeport, IL 61032