Obituary of Brian R. Minnick
Brian Richard Minnick, age 50, of Joliet and Crest Hill, passed away peacefully Friday, May 13, 2022 surrounded by his loving family at home following a long and courageous battle with brain cancer.
He was born January 28, 1972 in Joliet to Richard Wilson and Carolyn Jean (Gallagher) Minnick. He was a Joliet West High School graduate, and he later received his Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry from Illinois State University. Brian worked for the Stepan Company in Elwood as a quality control technician and was a member of Teamsters Local #179.
Brian will be remembered for being the most loyal, selfless, and generous person you would ever meet. He was also a devoted son to his beloved mother, an incredible Uncle, and a loving Papa to his grandbabies. He had many hobbies, including playing darts, pool, bowling, kayaking, and cheering for the Chicago White Sox. He had many happy memories with family, friends, and neighbors that will be cherished forever. Fourth of July and Halloween celebrations will never be the same without his enthusiastic personality. His unique laugh always put a smile on our faces and is something we will never forget.
Despite all the surgeries and years of treatments, Brian never complained. His bravery and determination will always be an abiding example to all of us.
Brian is survived by his loving wife, Karen (Kelly) Minnick; three children, Jennifer (Chris) Papadopoulos, Andrew (Rachel) Scholp, and Kelli Scholp; four grandchildren, Aubrey and Harper Scholp, and Melina and Theo Papadopoulos; his mother, Carolyn Minnick; one sister, Jayne (Scott) Worden; four nephews and one niece, Daniel Worden, Emily Worden, Steven (Bethaney) Kelly, Nick (Dina) Kelly, and Sean Kelly; and one great-niece, Evelyn Kelly. He was also loved by numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. Last but not least, he will be missed most by his beloved dog, Abby.
He was preceded in death by his father, Richard Minnick.
Visitation for Brian Minnick will be held Sunday, May 22, 2022 from 11:00 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black Road, Joliet. A Service of Remembrance will follow at 3:15 p.m. Cremation rites will follow the service.
One of Brian’s requests was for all family and friends to wear their Chicago White Sox or Chicago Cubs apparel to his visitation and service.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in his name to the family to benefit several of Brian’s interests and passions would be appreciated.
For more information, please call (815) 741-5500 or visit his Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com
