Justin (a.k.a Tom) Mack

Justin (a.k.a. Tom) Mack, 72, of Kankakee, peacefully passed away on Saturday, December 21, 2024, at Presence St. Mary’s Hospital in Kankakee. Justin was born on June 13, 1952, in Oak Park, Illinois, the son of Justin Edward and Beverly Frances Mack. Justin owned and operated Grove Printing in Downers Grove, Illinois, for many years. His love of crossword puzzles (especially the New York Times) and intolerance for bad grammar (the apple didn’t fall far from the maternal tree!) served him well in his chosen profession. Justin’s blistering typing speed of over 80 wpm became legendary as did his proofreading ability. These added values produced an appreciative and devoted clientele. After taking pre-veterinary classes at Northern Illinois University, Justin’s dream of becoming a veterinarian remained unfulfilled because he loved animals too much, rendering him unable to cause discomfort even to help them. His love of animals, especially cats and squirrels, gave him great joy throughout his life. Justin is survived by his brother, Jeffrey (Mary) Mack and other survivors, and sister, Patricia Mack (Richard) Newton. He is preceded in death by his parents, Justin and Beverly Mack, and beloved life partner of 22 years, Kenneth R. Elrod; sisters Judith Lynn Mack, and Lisa Christine Mack. Cremation rites have been accorded.