Obituary of Wayne Picha

Wayne L. Picha Age 63. Suddenly Wednesday, January 15, 2014 at Silver Cross Hospital as the result of an apparent heart attack with his loving wife by his side. Born in Joliet and a New Lenox resident for the past 37 years. A U.S. Army 2nd Armored Division Vietnam veteran. Retired from Caterpillar, Inc. in 2003 after over 31 years of service as a machinist. An active member of the DH Motorcycle Club, past President of the Road Apples MC and also a member of the Valid Proof Blues Band, playing bass guitar and back up singer for many years. Wayne's greatest loves in life were spending time with his family, friends, being on the open road on his Harley Davidson, but most of all, he had a very special place in his heart for his grandchildren who will always remain the apple of his eye. He was a devoted and loving husband, father and grandfather whose love for his family and friends knew no bounds. Survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Jan (nee Pera) Picha of New Lenox; two sons, Joseph (Carly) of Custer Park, IL and Anthony (Jill) Picha of Manhattan, IL; one daughter, Nicole (fiancee, Randy Smith) Picha of Elwood, IL; six loving grandchildren, Josephine Picha, Lily, Nick and Dominic Picha and Mia and Ava Smith; two brothers, Donald (Marge) of Plainfield and Robert (Mary) Picha of Havana, IL; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins also survive. Preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Margaret (nee Ancel) Picha. Funeral Services for Wayne L. Picha will be held Tuesday, January 21, 2014 at 9:00 a.m. from the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black at Essington Rds., Joliet to St. Jude Catholic Church in New Lenox for a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. Interment Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery where full military honors will be conducted under the auspices of the U.S. Army. Visitation Monday 3-8 p.m. at the funeral home. For more information: (815) 741-5500 or www.fredcdames.com