John Joseph Radtke

December 22, 2012

John Joseph "Jack" Radtke, 87, passed away peacefully at home, Saturday, December 22, 2012. He was the son of the late John Joseph Radtke, Sr. and Mary Frances O'Leary, born January 25, 1925 in Lombard, Illinois. He is survived by the love of his life and devoted wife, Judy (kisses  3 X 3); children Jeffery Thomas (Linda), Richard John (Jana), Bradley James (Donna), Debbie Batten (Bill), Sandie Seaton (Steve), Richard John "Ric" and, Rhonda Jones; 16 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren.  He was known as ‘Papa’ by all of his grandchildren who loved him dearly.                                                                              Jack was a combat veteran and POW who served with honor in WWII.  He was part of the largest ever amphibious landing of Allied infantry troops in the Battle of Normandy.  Jack was an enthusiastic race car fan.  He was also a professional race car driver during the 1950’s and raced on Daytona Beach, Florida before the Daytona International Speedway opened in the late 1950's.  Jack was also a business owner, realtor, and master mechanic.  Most important he was a loving husband, father, and grandfather who taught his family the importance of building strong character strengths and virtues.  He will be greatly missed by all. Visitation to be held at Page-Theus Funeral Home on Main Street in Leesburg, Florida, Saturday, December 29, 2012 at 12 pm followed by services at 1 pm and then graveside service at Lady Lake Cemetery,  Lady Lake, Florida.  Memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society.