John G. Wilcox
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John G. Wilcox died peacefully on Sunday, September 3, 2023, under hospice care in St Joseph Hospital of Kansas City, MO with his family at his side at the age of 90.
John served proudly in the United States Navy on the Battleship Missouri, for 4 years, demonstrating his dedication and commitment to his country. He graduated from Immaculate Conception High School in Cedar Rapids, IA in 1952 and the University of Iowa in 1959, while sandwiching his naval service in between.
John had a successful career as an executive with pharmaceutical distributors including McKesson & Robbins, J.W. Edgerly, McPike, Foxmeyer & Martek. His work ethic won the respect of his co-workers, but it was his Irish charm, wit and genuine passion that connected him to people. These values were a major part of the successes that he earned in his career, but they also entrusted him to so many people that sought his counsel and mentorship. Old colleagues continued to touch base with him long after his retirement.
John is survived by his loving children: Ron (Mary) Wilcox, James (Amy) Wilcox, Karen Downing, Lisa (Eric) Cross, Patti (John) Shell, and his daughter-in-law Luanne (Thomas) Wilcox. He was preceded in death by his father, Harry J. Wilcox, his mother, Mabel (Williams) Wilcox, his beloved wife, Jacqueline Wilcox, and his son, Thomas (Luann) Wilcox, his brother Harry (Fran) Wilcox and sister Kate (Bob) Work.
He was the loving grandfather of Nicholas, Nicole, Jenna, Joseph, Jacqueline, Kathleen, Connor, Riley, Alex, Gene, Morgan, Delaney, Sarah, Jack, Samuel, Taylor and Grant. Also, the great grandfather of Owen, Drew, Will, Colton, Ava, Hudson and Owen.
John met the love of his life in fifth grade, and they became sweethearts in high school. The loving bond and respect between the two of them over their 66-year marriage was an inspiration and aspiration to their children. John always made sure that his kids knew how much he loved their mother.
A funeral mass will be celebrated at Immaculate Conception Church on Saturday, September 16, 2023, at 1:30 PM. A graveside service at Mt Cavalry Cemetery will follow with a reception at the Starlite Room.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Lawrence Parkinson & Support Group at 4208 Wimbeldon Dr., Lawrence, Kansas 66047.
John will be remembered for his larger-than-life persona, his successful career, his successful retirement and most importantly, the love and support that he shared with his family. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him and embraced by those who went before him.
We wish to thank the staff at St Joseph Hospital and Dr. Donald Cohen for their attentive and compassionate care to John in his final hours.
No doubt John meant a lot in my life as a friend and a business associate. The joy and laughs and serious talks were numerous.
He was a competitor yet humble. We talked by phone so much after retirement intermingled with the adorable “Jackie”. They made Love what life is for God Country and family. I am proud to say I was a good friend of “Big John”. Our families were friends because of him. What a friend, and I honestly say I Love him. God Bless. God Bless his family. God welcome him.
John Wilcox was one of the most dynamic and legendary characters I have ever had the pleasure of knowing as a friend and manager under his leadership for over ten years. His knowledge and wit were universally respected. He drew crowds wherever he went. His deep voice caught your attention immediately. The people who worked for him respected him. I can truthfully say I loved him. God bless you John. Keep them entertained up there. We miss you. God Speed!