Homer John Askounis, age 100, fell asleep in the Lord March 24, 2024. Beloved husband of the late Mary Askounis née Coolis for 67 years. Loving father of John (Michele Higgins), Dean (Annette) and Themis Askounis. Devoted son of the late John T. and Maria Askounis. Proud grandfather of Alekos, Maria, Andrew and Lily Askounis. Dear brother of the late Orpheus J. (the late Norma) Askounis and Themis Klotz. Brother-in-law of the late Theodora “Lou” (the late Henry) Thole and Constantinos “Gus” Coolis. Fond uncle of Karen (Terry LaMastus) Askounis, Kristen Askounis, Shawn Askounis, Edward Klotz, Audie (Paul Fenwick) Klotz, David (the late Nola) Thole, Doug (Dianne) Thole and Judy (Norm) Carver.
Born and raised in Chicago, Homer was a hometown man. He met and married Helen Coolis from Kalamazoo, MI, and they remained by each other’s side for 67 years in Chicago, Glencoe, Rogers Park and finally Glenview. Homer and Helen were immensely proud of their three children and (if possible, even more so) of the grandchildren that eventually came along. He served his country in the Army Air Corps’ meteorological division, and maintained throughout his life the strong friendships that were formed with his WWII pals. He went on to attain a law degree at Northwestern University and pursued private practice, though his intense interest in the stock market evolved into a successful personal investing career. Ever the hometown sports fan, the Bears, Bulls, Sox and Cubs were his teams, and he saw all of them win championships.
Dad, you lived a life filled with family and friendships. You were admired and loved by everyone who met you. As a father, you were a living example of how to be the best person possible; your integrity, kindness and good humor paved the path for our lives. Your 100 years on this Earth couldn’t have been better lived, and if only you were aware of all the lives you touched. We miss you. But we are content that you finally rest with your beloved bride and our mother, Helen.
Private service and Interment at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 30, 2024, at Elmwood Cemetery, River Grove, IL. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to a charity of your choosing would be appreciated. Graveside service will be live streamed at Memory Eternal Funeral Directors Facebook. Arrangements by Memory Eternal Funeral Directors, Ltd. (847) 375-0095.