John Phares Laird, age 71, a resident of Wheaton, IL, passed away on August 28, 2013 at his residence. John was born in Appleton, Wisconsin on January 27, 1942.

He graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Economics. He received his MBA from the University of Chicago.

He served in the United States Army from June 1965 until he was honorably discharged in December of 1970 and served as an artillery corps officer.

John taught Economics at Elmhurst College and worked as a business broker for JPL and associates among other professional endeavors. He enjoyed reading, fishing, walking, skiing, rock collecting and spending time with friends and family.

He is survived by his two sons, Michael Laird of Chicago, IL and Eric Laird, of Wheaton, IL; his daughter in law Jennifer Laird of Wheaton, IL; two grandchildren Ethan and Cami Laird; step-brother Tim Ward of San Francisco, CA, step-sister Susan Davis of Appleton, WI; half-sister Kathy Laird of Appleton, WI and half-sister Betsy Turenske of Shioctan, WI; and three cousins—Pennie Laird, Culver City CA; Wendy (Tom) Beyer, Bethesda, MD; and Nancy Zickus, Nashua NH.

He was preceded in death by his father, Dr. James W. Laird of Appleton, WI and his mother, Barbara Ward of Clinton, IL.

Please join us to celebrate John's life, share fun memories, and celebrate God's grace and love. A casual memorial service will be held Saturday, September 7 at Eric and Jennifer Laird's home, 821 N. Wheaton Avenue, Wheaton, IL 60187. Visitation will be from 5:00 – 6:30 p.m. followed by the memorial service.