John L. Damore, 92, of Westmont, former longtime resident of Riverside, died on Aug. 4, 2026. Born on Oct. 20, 1933, he was a proud U.S. Marine veteran, and played for the Chicago Bears. Drafted by the NFL in 1955 out of Northwestern University, he played from 1957 to 1959. This past season, he joyfully celebrated being the oldest living Chicago Bear, a milestone that brought him great pride and sparked many fond conversations. The former owner of Damore Construction and Damore Builders in Riverside for many years, he loved coaching youth football at St. Mary School in Riverside. He always bragged that he had the greatest family in the world.
John was the husband of Joyce (nee Albert) Damore for 65 years, a partnership marked by devotion, humor and unwavering support. He was the father of Alison (William) Bihun and Lawrence “Larry” Damore; and the grandfather of John Bihun and Ashley Bihun. He was preceded in death by his siblings, Sally (the late John) Jeske, Rose (the late Lewis) Casassa, Rochelle (the late Clifford) Faust, Joanne (the late Ronald Wert and the late Dennis) Malec, and Linda (the late Ross) Patten. He was the uncle and cousin to many, remembered for his kindness, steady presence, and deep affection for his family.
Visitation will be held at the Conboy-Westchester Funeral Home, 10501 W. Cermak Road, on Aug. 19, from 3 until 8 p.m. A chapel service will be held at 10 a.m. on Thursday, Aug. 20 at the funeral home. Interment will remain private.
Arrangements handled by the Original Kuratko Family, Brian D. Kuratko – Director.