John B. “Jack” Freund, of Lake Geneva, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 14, surrounded by his family.
Jack was born on Aug. 1, 1936, in McHenry County, Illinois, to Ben and Berniece Freund. He was raised in Delavan, attending Saint Patrick’s parochial elementary and graduating from Delavan High School. He maintained strong roots in Delavan throughout his life.
Jack’s faith was a cornerstone in his life. He was a proud member of St. Peter’s Catholic Church in East Troy along with his wife. Jack was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Ginny, in 2019. They shared 60 wonderful years of marriage, traveling throughout the United States, and supporting each other in their hobbies.
Jack proudly served his country in the United States Army during the 1950s and was stationed in Bamberg, Germany. He spoke often and with great pride about his time in the service and the experiences he gained while serving overseas.
Following his military service, Jack built a long and successful career in the petroleum industry. His entrepreneurial spirit and strong work ethic led him to own and operate multiple gas stations, as well as a car wash.
He later became the proud owner of the Handi Mart convenience store in Lake Como, where he and Ginny were a familiar and friendly presence in the community.
In retirement, Jack devoted himself to a passion that brought him great joy and recognition – collecting antique coin-operated machines. His collection included peanut machines, gumball machines, slot machines, and trade stimulators. He was widely respected in the field. His dedication and expertise earned him induction into the Coin Operated Collectors Association Hall of Fame.
Jack is survived by his sister, Patricia Brahm; his children, Genise (Bob) Kamps, John (Carol) Freund, and Julie (Tim) Schiller; eight grandchildren; and twelve great-grandchildren, all whom were a source of immense pride and joy in his life.
Jack will be remembered as a loving husband and devoted father as well as for his entrepreneurial drive, his deep appreciation for history, his pride in serving his country, and the lasting impact he made on his family, friends, and community.
A celebration of Jack’s life will be held at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, 1981 Beulah Ave, East Troy, on Monday, June 15, 2026, from 10 until the time of the Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. Internment will be at Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Peter’s Church in East Troy.
Lazarczyk Family Funeral Home of Lake Geneva and Delavan is proudly serving the family.