John A. Guildenzoph, 74, of Wilmington, IL, was born in Joliet, Illinois, to the late John L. and Marjorie (nee Schmuhl) Guildenzoph and passed away January 14, 2026.

John was the beloved husband of the late Rhonda (nee Splittgerber) Guildenzoph; loving father of Benjamin (Melissa Ryberski) Guildenzoph, Mark (Taryn Speroff) Guildenzoph, Cari (David) Guildenzoph-Ingram, and John (Julie Hayes) Guildenzoph; cherished grandfather of Anthony John, Rori Jo (James Holt), Jacob Benjamin, Walker John, and Vivian Rosemary; great grandfather of Raelynn Jo; beloved brother of Beverly Guildenzoph-Ruhle (George Ruhle); fond uncle of Jennifer Ruhle (Craig Copeland), Melissa Ruhle-Mauldin (Kerry Mauldin), and Amy Ruhle-Guerzon (Grey Guerzon); great uncle of Tyler Copeland (Katie Copeland- daughter Kali), Hunter Copeland (Sam Copeland), and Emily Guerzon; long time companion Louise D. Nelson proceeded John in death. She was a beloved partner for 20 years. They shared many heart felt moments, vacations, gardening activities, and her grandchildren.

Her son Bobby (Jennifer), daughters Jamie (Mike), and Jennifer (Mark), joined the loving extended family with grandchildren Brayden, Riley and Bryson; dear cousin to many.

Farmer John, aka “Big Al,” lived a very hard-working life between his vast and varied careers that of which included being a truck driver, welder, excavator with Local 150, and farmer in the Manhattan/New Lenox area.

Throughout John’s life, he enjoyed various adventures, from traveling, fishing, hunting and showing cattle at the state fairs. John enjoyed his retirement watching his grandchildren and great-granddaughter grow and play.

John was preceded in death by his parents John L. Guildenzoph and Marjorie E. Guildenzoph (Schmuhl); grandparents Albert and Vernice Schmuhl, and John A. and Agnus Guildenzoph (Walsh).

Funeral services were held at Kurtz Memorial Chapel 102 E. Francis Road, New Lenox, IL, on Saturday January 17, 2026.