Harlem-Roscoe firefighter/ paramedic John Morgan 1972-2026

John D. Morgan, 53, of Caledonia, IL, passed away unexpectedly, Sunday evening, May 31, 2026. He was born July 16, 1972 in Dixon, IL, the son of John "Sam" and Betty (Clayton) Morgan. John graduated from Dixon High School and went on to get his Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice from Concordia University. John was employed by Harlem Roscoe Fire for 25 years. He proudly served as a Firefighter/Paramedic and was a huge component to the EMS Committee and Preceptor Program. He was extremely passionate in this field and served as a mentor to many. He also served as a police officer for the City of Freeport, Pecatonica, and McHenry County Sheriff's department. John’s pride and joy was his farm, which he worked tirelessly to grow for his kids. The many animals, buildings, projects, and outdoor work gave him a great sense of purpose. He loved to watch his kids play softball and baseball, and was their loudest cheerleader. He enjoyed playing his guitar and jamming with anyone carrying a tune, especially at the bluegrass festivals. He was an avid hunter and trapper and took pride in sharing this hobby with his son and son in laws, along with anyone else who yearned to learn. He carried a great sense of community with him and instilled this value in his kids. He loved to share stories and joke with anyone who would listen; If you had a conversation with John, chances are you got a life lesson to go with it. John D. Morgan, 53, of Caledonia, IL, passed away unexpectedly, Sunday evening, May 31, 2026. Survivors include his children Abigail (Ryan), Emily (Trey), Sean, and Elizabeth Morgan, and his partner Jennifer Hopkins, all of Caledonia. Survivors also include his brothers, Harold “Bud” (Pat) Lempke, Randy “Joe” Lempke, as well as two sisters; Maxine Ashbey of Sterling and Roberta (Terry) Davis of Red Oak, California, as well as several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Larry Lempke Sr., and infant siblings Kathleen and Billy Lempke. A visitation will be held on Sunday, June 7, 2026 from 2:00-6:00 p.m., at Sunset Funeral Home, 8800 N. Alpine Rd, Machesney Park, IL 61115. A visitation will be held on Monday, June 8, 2026 from 10:00-11:00 a.m., at Harlem High School, with a funeral service to begin at 11:00 a.m. Burial in Sunset Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Harlem Roscoe Fire.