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John A. “Big John” Bigley, Jr.

February 9, 1941 -
February 15, 2020

Our dearest Husband, Father, Grandfather, Uncle and Friend, John “Big John” Andrew Bigley, Jr. passed away on Saturday, February 15, 2020 at the age of 79 years.

During his life he was the beloved husband and best friend of Sonja Rae Bigley (nee: Nelson); a loving father to Christopher (Nora) Bigley, Cindy (Ron Kruse) Schumacher, Brian Bigley, Becky (Jim) Scuric, Lori Bermke (Maggie Keller) and Vince Bermke; a proud Grandfather to his grandchildren; Danny, Jimmy, Allie, Jeremy, Vince Jr, Katy, Mika, Stephanie, Travis, Mandy, Jess and Amanda; a great grandfather to Levi, Ari, Clarkson, Jordan, Jaxon and Jadon; and a caring brother to Jim Bigley.

He was born on February 9, 1941, he was the son of the late John Andrew, Sr and Bernice Genevieve (Ferko) Bigley. John attended Cathedral Grade School, was a graduate of Marquette High School, attended Marquette University and received a degree in computer programming from Manpower Business and Training Institute.

He was a member of St. Anne’s Catholic Church, Pleasant Prairie, WI.

On July 24, 1987, he was united in marriage to Sonja Rae Bermke.

John was employed with Schwerman Trucking as Director of Information Systems for 36 years. Following his retirement, he enjoyed 19 years working in the Hunting/Cutlery Department at Bass Pro Shop, Gurnee,IL.   He enjoyed fishing, gardening, photography and trips to Alaska, but most of all he loved spending time with his family and grandchildren. Big in stature, he had a sense of humor and commanded the room with his jokes.

He generously spent much of his time volunteering with local organizations such as St. Anne’s Catholic Church and the Boy Scouts of America. He was a proud member of the N.R.A.

 

Service Info

Funeral services honoring John’s life will be held on Saturday, February 22, 2020. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 12:00 p.m. at St. Anne’s Catholic Church, 9091 Prairie Ridge Blvd, Kenosha, WI. A private inurnment will be held at a later date in Holy Apostles Cemetery in New Berlin. A visitation for John will be held on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the Mass at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorial remembrances to the Boy Scouts Three Harbor Council, 330 S. 84th Street, Milwaukee, WI 53214 would be appreciated by the family.

  • Posted by:
    Craig V. Hasting

    To the entire Bigley family my sincere sympathies on the passing of "Big John". So many memories of good scouting times. From West District adventures to OA service projects. What wonderful times. Rest in Peace WWW Craig V. Hasting Past West District Chairman Past Council Commissioner Past OA Lodge Advisor

  • Posted by:
    Fr. Tom Biersack

    Dear Sonja, Sorry to hear of the death of John. Be assured that John and you will be in my prayers. Blessings and peace, Fr. Tom

  • Posted by:
    Shirley Klinkhammer

    Chris, I 'm so sorry to hear of your dad's passing. It is so difficult to lose a loved one and even though I didn't know him, it sounds like your dad was a very special man. In case you don't remember me, I'm Norb Klinkhammer's (the old guy) wife. My thoughts and prayers are with your family at this difficult time. God Bless.

  • Posted by:
    Richard A. Bosanko

    Chris a & Family: On behalf of the Kenosha Fire Department FAMILY, both ACTIVE and RETIRED members, our sincere sympathy to all of you on the loss of John. We share in your sorrow. We wish you many fond memories of the good times that you all shared together as a FAMILY. Chris, we've "got your back", Brother. In sympathy.......Richard "BO" Bosanko-Battalion Chief-Retired; Kenosha Fire Department

  • Posted by:
    Teri Ewig

    Brian. I was so sorry to hear about the passing of your dad. You and your family our in my prayers. You will forever carry all the great memories in your heart. Please take care Teri Ewig

  • Posted by:
    Chris & Dave Weber

    To John's family & friends, our condolences. Our thoughts are with you today. Please remember the great life he shared with all he knew. A force in life as big as he, with a heart to match. Chris & Dave Weber

  • Posted by:
    Doug and Sue Schomberg

    Sonja and family, Our deepest sympathies to your family on the passing of John into New Life. We are certain he will be missed here. Always possessing a ready smile and a cordial, intelligent demeanor, a discussion with John was always valuable. Good listeners like John make the conversation enjoyable. We will pray for your peace and comfort that the Spirit of Life can, and shall provide. We are sad, like you at this time. We will take comfort in the Truth John is very, very happy now! God Bless you all, Doug and Sue