Lynn W. Kratochvil

Lynn W. Kratochvil

Age 84 and a lifelong resident of Coal City, died August 20, 2026 at his home.

Born June 16, 1942, in Morris, Illinois, Lynn Wayne was a son of Frank James and Irene (Emanuelson) Kratochvil. He was raised in Coal City, a community he was proud to call home throughout his life. Lynn graduated from Coal City High School with the Class of 1960 and went on to honorably serve his country in the United States Army.

Following his military service, Lynn built a long and dedicated career with Mobil Oil Corporation, retiring after more than 20 years of service.

Lynn was a member of Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Roman Catholic Church in Coal City, the Coal City Area Club, Area #1 Miners Recreational Club, the National Rifle Association, and Ducks Unlimited. He also gave back to his community through his service on the board of the Braceville-Gardner Cemetery Association.

Those who knew Lynn will remember a man who found great happiness in the simple things in life. He loved being outdoors, whether hunting, fishing, tending to his garden, or simply enjoying the world around him. He also enjoyed cooking and sharing what he made with the people he loved.

Above all, family was at the heart of Lynn’s life. Time spent with his family, and especially with his grandchildren, brought him some of his greatest joy. The memories made around the table, outdoors, and during the ordinary moments of everyday life will remain a treasured part of his legacy.

Lynn will be remembered for his love of family, his connection to the Coal City community, his appreciation for the outdoors, and the many traditions and memories he leaves behind.

Survivors include his sons: Alan (Jennifer) Kratochvil of Braceville, Illinois and Brian Kratochvil of Coal City; step-children: Keith (Terri) Scerine, Kristy (Chip) Cerovac and Joe Vinyard; granddaughter, Brianna Kratochvil; grandson, Paul Wilczak; several step-grandchildren; his sister, Cathy (Henry) Kuchenbacher of Wilmington and numerous nieces and nephews, as well as cousins.

Lynn was preceded in death by his parents Frank and Irene Kratochvil; wife Cathy (nee Skubic) on March 10, 2006, and his sister, Joanne Ulivi.

The family will receive friends for a visitation at Reeves Funeral Home, 75 N. Broadway (one block north of Illinois Route 113) in Coal City on Monday, August 24, 2026 between the hours of 5:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. Funeral services will follow Tuesday morning, August 25, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. in the funeral home with Deacon William Dunn from Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish presiding.

Burial will be in Braceville-Gardner Cemetery, where Lynn will be laid to rest with his late wife, Cathy.

Preferred memorials may be made as gifts in Lynn’s memory to the Braceville-Gardner Cemetery Association, P.O. Box 246, Braceville, IL 60407.

Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.ReevesFuneral.com to sign the guest book, upload photographs and share Lynn’s memorial page online through social media.

Funeral services and arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves Fruland & Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory. (815-634-2125)