John Patrick Frestel, Jr. passed away peacefully with his beloved wife Dianne by his side, on July 10, 2025, at their home in Lakewood Ranch, Florida. He was 86.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Dianne, and former spouse Cynthia Frestel, with whom he shared the joy of raising five children: Jennifer (Doug) Towsey, Kimberley (John) Tillison, Amy Christin, Jill (Sam) Nutile, and Kristen O'Connor.
Jack was born on June 14,1939, in Chicago. He was the youngest child of Patrick "John" and Norma (Holmes) Frestel. He grew up surrounded by his older siblings- Donald, Marilyn and Patricia-and he cherished those close family bonds throughout his life. He is preceded in death by his parents, siblings and grandson, Thomas D. Splinter III. He was a favorite uncle to many nieces and nephews. He was also a proud stepfather and grandfather to many, and a constant, supportive presence in their lives.
He had a deep appreciation for his Irish roots, ancestors in Counties Mayo and Cork, Ireland. He loved to travel and treasured moments with family-especially time spent with grandchildren, be it in the pool, at Disney World, adventures to Paris, Rome and across the USA. Knowledgeable of a few words in several languages, education was an essential requisite for Jack. He encouraged and supported his children and grandchildren to continue their education. He himself earned a BA from Marquette University, a Doctor of Law degree from Georgetown University and an MBA from the University of Chicago.
He built a remarkable career in labor relations, serving as VP of Personnel and Labor Relations at the Santa Fe Southern Pacific Railway and later as Executive VP of Human Resources and Executive Committee Member at USAirways. In retirement, he co-founded Dirty Dick's Crab House in the Outer Banks of North Carolina, embracing his entrepreneurship with characteristic humor.
Jack had a sharp wit with an expansive vocabulary and a talent for puns that never failed to amuse. He had a warm and generous personality, and his absence leaves a big space in our hearts.
A small private memorial will be held in Florida in October, and a celebration of life will be held in Chicago at a later date.
