Obituary: Mark S. Littlejohn

Obituary was published and funeral arrangements were entrusted to the care and direction of the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home and Crematory​.

Mark S. Littlejohn

Mark S. Littlejohn, age 69, passed away surrounded by the love of his family at Rush University Medical Center on Sunday, September 6, 2026. He was the son of the late Lawrence and Marjorie (nee Facinelli) Littlejohn. Born in Lawton, Oklahoma and raised in Joliet, he was a graduate of Joliet East High School, Class of 1975.

He was a devoted Chicago sports fan, proudly cheering on the Chicago White Sox and Chicago Bears through every season. Whether celebrating a big win or enduring a tough loss, his teams were always a part of his life and a favorite topic of conversation.

His love for his dogs was just as deep. Princess, Sadie, and Surfer were more than pets; they were cherished members of his family and constant companions who brought him countless moments of happiness. His granddog, Nova, also held a special place in his heart. The love he held for them all was unconditional.

For much of his life, you could find him at the bowling alley. Bowling wasn't simply a pastime, it was a lifelong passion. From his youth through adulthood, he enjoyed the competition, the camaraderie, the familiar sounds of the lanes, and the friendships made along the way. He was an avid bowler for decades, continuing to enjoy the sport until the time of his diagnosis. The bowling alley was a place where he felt at home. A place filled with memories, laughter, and people who became part of his extended family.

And then there was Torch Lake, Michigan, a place that held a special piece of his heart. Every summer, he wholeheartedly treasured his two-week vacation at the lake. Those days were something he looked forward to year after year. It was a time to slow down, enjoy the beauty around him, make memories with those he loved, and simply be present in a place that brought him peace and happiness. Torch Lake was more than a vacation destination, it was a cherished tradition and one of life's gifts he never took for granted.

He will be remembered for the things he loved, but even more so for the way he loved them—with his whole heart. His passion for his teams, his dedication to bowling, his devotion to his dogs, and his treasured summers at Torch Lake, each tell a small part of the story of a man who knew what mattered to him and embraced those things fully.

Though his time with us was not long enough, the memories he leaves behind will last a lifetime. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, bowling companions, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Mark is survived by his loving wife of 39 years, Barbara (nee Stoner); his sons, Joe (Maggie) and Frank; his granddaughter, Blair; sister, Judi (Greg) Wermer; godson and nephew, Andrew (Alex) Wermer; brothers-in-law, John (the late Sharon) Stoner, Chuck (Trisha) Stoner; sisters-in-law, Mary (the late Jim) Stoner, Carrie (Adrian) Skital, Julie (Kyle) Oostra; niece, Dr. Kimberly Stoner; great-aunt, Judi Robbins.

He is preceded in death by his parents; sister-in-law, Sharon; brother-in-law, Jim and his dear friend and uncle, Pete Robbins.

A Celebration of Life will be held in his honor on Saturday, September 12, 2026 from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Chicago Street Bar and Grill, 75 N Chicago St, Joliet, IL, 60432. As it was Mark’s request, cremation rites have been accorded.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Mark’s name to Rush University Medical Center.

For information, please call (815) 741-5500 or visit his Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com, where you may share a favorite memory or leave a condolence.

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