INFORMATION FROM PHIL HASKETT (RET)

[cdillon]

Robbie Levensbaum, March 29, 1955 - January 09, 2025, Funeral Date and Time: Monday, January 13, 2025 at 02:00 pm, Funeral Service Information: Robbie Levensbaum, beloved husband of Suzanne (nee Gadeke). Loving dad of Candice (Kevin) West. Cherished grandfather of Conor, James and Patrick. Dear brother of the late Elliot. Devoted son of the late Louis Levensbaum and the late Genevieve (the late Hyman) Mellovitz. Funeral service Monday, January 13 at 2:00PM at Westlawn Cemetery Mausoleum, 7801 W Montrose Ave, Norridge. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to Lamb’s Farm would be appreciated. Arrangements by Lakeshore Jewish Funerals, 773-625-8621. Funeral Provider: Lakeshore Jewish Funerals Clergy: Rabbi Moshe Wolf, Interment: Westlake Section, Westlawn Cemetery and Lakeshore Jewish Funerals.

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John Francis Martin, December 24, 1935-January 7, 2025, passed away on January 7, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones under the compassionate care of Alexian Brothers Hospice Residence. Beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, cousin, and friend, John lived a life rich in love, service, and adventure. For 31 cherished years, he was a devoted husband, best friend, travel companion, and fishing partner to Kathleen (Majewski). John was a proud and loving father to Lisa Martin, Mary (Steven) Henningsen, Nancy (Donald) Hull, Joan (Timothy) Murrin, and John (Anna) Martin. His greatest joy came from being a grandfather to Daniel Martin (Victoria), Sean (Lisa) Simons, Marina Martin, Kailey (Andrew) Bocanegra, DJ (Carly) Hull, Joseph (Celina) Hull, Kyra Burke, Matthew Martin, and Giuliana Martin. His loved extended to his great-grandchildren Hailey Simons, JoJo Hull, Sawyer Hull, Austin Simons, and Aubrey Hull. Cherished uncle to many nieces and nephews. Dear brother-in-law to William Majewski, Agnes Kluck, and Leo (Janis) Majewski. Born and raised on the west side of Chicago, John was the beloved son of the late John F. Martin, a pharmacist who passed away when John was just five years old, and EmEstelle (Payne). He was the cherished brother to the late Mary Ellen (Robert) Fencl, Barbara (Milton) Catapano, and Rosanna, Dolora, and Joan, who all preceded him in death during infancy. John’s strong educational foundation was shaped by Jesuit principles emphasizing intellectual rigor, service to others, and personal growth. His experiences at Presentation Grade School, St. Ignatius High School, and Loyola University instilled in him a lifelong commitment to critical thinking, ethical leadership, and social justice. In his younger years, John worked as a lifeguard at the YMCA, showing his dedication and sense of responsibility. When he wasn’t on duty at the pool, he found joy on the softball field, proudly playing alongside the older guys. Their camaraderie and competitive spirit shaped some of his fondest memories. John enlisted in the Marines, driven by a strong desire to serve his country. Although an injury during boot camp cut his journey short, his dedication and willingness to serve reflect the heart of a true Marine. "Once a Marine, always a Marine”. Semper Fi. A dedicated public servant, John enjoyed a distinguished 37-year, 1-month and 18-day career with the Chicago Police Department. Starting as a patrol officer, he rose through the ranks to become a youth officer, sergeant, lieutenant, and ultimately captain. As Commanding Officer of Gangs North and West, Commander of the 23rd District, and Watch Commander in multiple districts, John earned the respect and admiration of his colleagues. As John rose through the ranks, it came as no surprise that he would eventually return to the west side’s 015 District—a community he knew intimately. His deep understanding of the streets and his natural ability to build meaningful connections with his officers cemented his reputation as a leader. Many who worked alongside John admired him so much that they followed him wherever his career took him. Known as a great boss, an inspiring leader, and a true role model, John left behind a legacy of leadership, service, and unwavering dedication to those he served and worked with. John's cabin in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan was his peaceful retreat, where he shared his love for fishing and nature with his family. Whether swimming across the lake with Nancy, fishing with Joan and Johnny, made countless memories at the cabin. As the years passed, John found joy in special fishing trips with Johnny as an adult, often pursuing the thrill of catching the big walleye together. Summers became even more memorable when his vacation coincided with Nancy and her family, allowing everyone to enjoy time together at his beloved cabin by the lake. Beyond the cabin, John and Kathy shared a deep love for travel, exploring destinations such as Ireland, Alaska, and Las Vegas. One standout memory was a trip to New Orleans, where they experienced the vibrant culture and unforgettable moments with their adult children and spouses. John shared a special bond with his first grandson, Danny. Their adventures included visits to Cantigny Park and the Pentoga Park Indian Burial Grounds, as well as fishing trips up north, where Danny was always the lucky one to catch the most fish. Danny’s favorite saying, “I know that!” became a cherished reminder of their time together. John was a man with many hats, and you would rarely see him without one. Over the years, John’s hats became a symbol of his personality—practical, adventurous, and full of character. Whether it was a baseball cap for fishing, his everyday Irish tweed cap, ‘Tis Himself cap, Mickey Mouse cap or a formal hat from his police uniform, each one carried a story and a memory. For Joannie, taking pictures of her and her dad with their hats on was a cherished way of capturing their special connection. A lifelong thoroughbred racing fan, John spent hours analyzing races, particularly during his trips to Las Vegas. He enjoyed reviewing race forms, tracking trends, and placing calculated bets. His daughter Mary became his handicapping partner, and their trips to Arlington Race Track were filled with strategy, shared winnings, and memorable dinners. John treasured time spent with his family, whether taking his children and grandchildren out to eat or hosting special meals at home. He particularly enjoyed preparing holiday dinners, with St. Patrick’s Day holding a special place in his heart. His passion for cooking and celebrating together ensured that family traditions were passed down to future generations. A gifted storyteller, John had a natural ability to captivate others, especially his children, with his jokes and tales, creating cherished memories. His love of the classics shone through in his love of old movies featuring icons like Humphrey Bogart and John Wayne, as well as his appreciation for Irish melodies and country legends like Willie Nelson. He was known for transforming everyday words into songs, a unique gift that brought joy to family moments and left a lasting impression on his eldest daughter, Lisa, who inherited this special talent. John's life was a testament to love, service, and the joys of family and tradition. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by those fortunate to know him. Member of the Fraternal Order of Police, Chicago Lodge 7, and Illinois Police. Visitation Monday January 13th at the Skaja Terrace Funeral Home 7812 N. Milwaukee Ave. Niles Il. from 4:00 - 8:00 pm. Funeral Services Tuesday 10:30 am. to St. Juliana Church for a Mass at 11:30 am. Interment All Saints Catholic Cemetery and Mausoleum, 700 N. River Rd. Des Plaines, IL 60016 In lieu of flowers donations to the Disabled American Veterans or the Chicago Police Chaplain Ministry.

From the CPD Daily bulletin 11 Jan. 2025.

DEATH NOTICES!

Passed away 06 January 2024 RETIRED POLICE OFFICER RICHARD A. DIETRICH formerly assigned to District 013.

Passed away 07 January 2024 RETIRED CAPTAIN JOHN FRANCIS MARTIN, formerly assigned to District 020.

Passed away 08 January 2024 LAURA NOEL MURPHY sister of Police Officer William “Billy” T. Murphy assigned to Auto Pounds.

Passed away 08 January 2024 JAVIER SALAZAR, father of Detention Aide Carmen Guzman assigned to Central Detention.

RETIREMENT CAKE AND COFFEE!

P.O. Daniel Paluck 13 January 25 • 1100 hrs Airport Operations South- Roll Call Room.

Det. Everardo Bracamontes Jr. 14 January 25 • 1700 hrs Area 4 -Detectives 2nd Floor.