Lemont Community Mourns Loss of Former Calvary Church Pastor

Greg Connour was a “man of dedication—both to his faith and to his incredible family,” with ”both an epic beard and a huge heart.”

A former pastor at Calvary Church, Connour, 37, died late Tuesday after a months-long battle with cancer.

“It was a fitting end to a beautiful life,” wrote Pastor Mark Bergin of his friend. “Earlier in the day, when Greg was still able to converse, he spoke words of thanks for all the time and love God had given throughout his 37 years. His heart was full. And he was not afraid.”

In July 2014, Connour was diagnosed with malignant melanoma. It was treated and removed, only to resurface in his liver, spleen, ribs, spine and skull. In the days before his death, he was diagnosed with sepsis, or bacteria in his blood.

“They have seen people pull out of situations like this, but the prognosis is pretty grim and we are aware of that,” according to an update posted Jan. 12. “So, we are feeling tired yet peaceful somehow, albeit with a constant frog in our throat.”

Connour impacted parishioners young and old, reaching out to all in support and spiritual guidance. His family wrote of his desire to connect and engage with people, noting that despite his aversion to public appearances and parties during his illness, he was often the last to leave.

“... he really loves all of you. And wishes now that he could have another conversation like that with you.”

Connour is survived by wife Sam, and children Blinn, 9, and Oz, 4.

A memorial service will be held Friday, Jan. 16 from 6 to 9 p.m., at Hubbard Street Lofts, 1821 W. Hubbard St., Unit 202, Chicago. Friends and family are invited to share stories and memories of Greg and how he touched their lives, beginning at 7 p.m. Guests are instructed to park in a lot in front of the building. Street parking is also available, but visitors should not park in neighboring lots.

A funeral service will be held Saturday, Jan. 17. Viewing will begin at 10 a.m., service at 11 a.m., at Calvary Church, 1375 State St. in Lemont. Burial will follow at 12:30 p.m., at Mount Vernon Estates, 11875 Archer Avenue in Lemont. An after-service lunch will be provided by Calvary Church at 2 p.m.

Find out how you can help the Connour family during their time of loss.