For John, supporting Scouting isn’t just a hobby—it’s a calling. From his earliest days as a Cub Scout in Flossmoor, Illinois, to his decades of adult service, Scouting has shaped his life and given him purpose. Today, he gives back to the movement that helped raise him—not just out of gratitude, but because he truly believes in what Scouting can do for young people.
John’s journey began in an energetic pack full of Pinewood Derbies, bike hikes, and outdoor adventures. He earned his Webelos badge and joined Troop 312, where the adventure only deepened. With regular camping trips—often biking to the campsites—and four straight years at summer camp, John was immersed in hands-on learning and leadership from an early age. In 8th grade, he made the trek to Philmont Scout Ranch, and in 1968, he earned the rank of Eagle Scout.
But Scouting meant even more to John than just outdoor fun. With a father who had been severely injured in World War II and unable to participate in physical activities, John looked to his Scout leaders for guidance and support. “They were such important role models for me,” he recalls. “They helped raise me in ways my dad simply couldn’t.” That early experience of being mentored planted a seed that would grow into a lifetime of service.
Years later, when his own two sons entered the program, John saw the perfect opportunity to pay it forward. He served in nearly every leadership role imaginable—Assistant Cubmaster, Assistant Scoutmaster, Committee Member, Quartermaster, Venturing Crew Advisor, and more. His favorite? Venturing. “Working with both young men and young women was incredibly rewarding,” he says. “I got to see them have so much fun and really grow as leaders.”
That belief in Scouting’s ability to build capable, confident, and community-minded young people continues to fuel John’s involvement. “Scouting teaches kids not just how to do things—like through merit badges—but how to lead others in doing those things,” he says. “That’s what makes the real difference. They leave the program ready to lead in their careers and communities.”
John has extended that passion to the broader Scouting movement as a devoted supporter of the Northeast Illinois Council (NEIC). He’s served on the Properties Committee, as Vice President of Administration (overseeing properties, risk management, and health and safety), and on Jamboree staff. He’s helped run Life to Eagle programs, maintained camps, and advised countless others. In short, if it needed doing, John was probably there to help.
His spirit of service also carried into his professional life. After 33 years at a major food corporation, John became a connector among retirees—organizing annual reunions, keeping people in touch, and nurturing friendships. In gratitude for his efforts, a group of former colleagues made a donation to NEIC in his honor. The result? A brand-new pavilion at the West Camp Staff Housing —standing as a symbol of John’s lasting impact.
When asked why he continues to support Scouting so passionately, John answers simply: “Because it works. It builds good people, and it builds strong friendships—for youth and adults alike.” Then he smiles and adds, “I’ve made some of my closest friends through Scouting. I can’t imagine my life without it.”
John’s story is more than one of long service—it’s a testament to the lasting power of Scouting to shape lives, inspire leaders, and bring people together.