John Charles “Crusher” Bednar, 63, of Brookfield and Keshena, Wisconsin, died peacefully on May 14, 2025. Born in Berwyn, he was the son of Jordis Bednar (nee Kozloski) and the late Jerome Bednar.
A skilled mechanic, handyman, and creative MacGyver who never met something broke he couldn’t fix, he gave his time and talents selflessly in service to others, most notably as a mentor to countless youth through programs in his church. It was with the Zackleys on mission trips and summer adventures in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness where he earned the nickname “Crusher,” proving his navigation skills were second to none. Professionally, he dedicated 29 years to Tennant Company as a service technician, his signature work van often seen cruising the streets of Chicagoland and northern Wisconsin.
A lover of the great outdoors year-round, his passion project was the property he purchased with Janet 37 years ago on Legend Lake. In Wisconsin’s Northwoods, he worked tirelessly to create a tranquil haven fostering innumerable memories.
He is fondly remembered for his larger than life personality, generous spirit, robust laugh, and vivacious smile. Fly like an eagle, Crusher.
John is survived by his high school sweetheart and devoted wife of 39 years, Janet Bednar (Kloss); his children, Katie Bednar and Ryan Bednar (Emma Brett); “grandpa” to Marlowe Jude Brett-Bednar; his siblings Jenifer Bednar Sinde, James Bednar, and Jordis Daigle; his nieces and nephews; and many friends who have become family over the years.
A celebration of John’s life will be held at 3 p.m. on Saturday, May 31, at First Congregational Church of LaGrange (100 S. 6th Ave. LaGrange).
In lieu of flowers, John has requested donations be made to the Friends of Music fund at First Congregational Church of LaGrange.