The Palos Heights community is remembering John “Jack” Cronin, a familiar face, a devoted McDonald’s regular and a neighbor known for pedaling his tricycle through town, following his death at age 66.
Cronin, who died recently, had been at the center of a moment of community kindness earlier this year when residents, police and a local bicycle shop rallied to replace his stolen tricycle. The gesture, at the time, reflected the deep affection many in Palos Heights felt for him and that affection is now echoed in condolences, memories and tributes shared after his passing.
Born Jan. 24, 1959, to the late Patricia and Richard Cronin, he was one of 11 siblings: Jim, Dan, the late Mary Pat, Tim, Teri, Tom, Den, Colleen, David and Michael. He was remembered as a vibrant presence in a large family, a “fabulous uncle” to many nieces and nephews and a great-uncle to even more.
Cronin worked for 25 years at the McDonald’s he continued to visit daily long after his employment ended. Friends and family said the restaurant served as both a workplace and a social anchor, a place where he was known, welcomed and loved.
His daily routine included riding his tricycle across Palos Heights to meet friends, forming a rhythm that made him a recognizable figure throughout the community. That routine was briefly interrupted when his tricycle was stolen outside the McDonald’s earlier this year, prompting widespread concern and an outpouring of support.
Police officers, the Fraternal Order of Police and Richard’s Bicycles worked together to replace the trike at no cost, surprising Cronin with a new blue model, gift cards and a lock. At the time, the gesture underscored how deeply he was woven into the fabric of the city.
In the days following his death, that same sense of community resurfaced as residents shared stories of Cronin’s warmth, humor and unwavering routine.
A Funeral Mass is scheduled for 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at St. Alexander Catholic Church, 7025 W. 126th St. in Palos Heights.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Sertoma Center.