DeVries, Bradley J.

Brad DeVries, age 53, of Milton Washington, passed away at home on January 22, 2022, after a 3-year battle with cancer. Born on Friday, December 13, 1968, at La Grange Community Memorial Hospital. Brad attended Marion Hills and Eisenhower Jr. High and graduated from Hinsdale South High School in Darien Illinois. He maintained a close friendship with his schoolmates from the area throughout his life. Brad

joined the US Army in 2008 at the ripe old age of 39, the oldest age you could enlist, including a 1-year tour in Iraq. He was lovingly called “Pops” and “Gramps” by some of his men. He attained the rank of Sgt during his 4-year enlistment and was very proud of his time dedicated to serving our Country. After his discharge in 2012 he moved to Milton Washington and took employment with a building rehab company where he was able to put

to use the welding skills learned at DAVEA.

Brad leaves behind his dear wife, Chompunuch Gongyin DeVries, his beloved boxer, Max; mother and father, John & Vicki DeVries of Plainfield; sister Christine (Douglas) St. John; dear nephews, nieces, aunts, uncles, and sisters-in-law Ann (Paul) Ouch, Jen (Luke) Grace, mother-in-law Phongsri Gongyin (the late Lompery Gongyin).

Brad’s Happies: Sedona AZ, Vodka Tonic and cigar, Tattoo – Twin Peaks characters, Chicago foods-Portillos Italian beef w/cheddar , chocolate cake milk shake, Lou Malnotti’s pizza, Andy’s frozen custard & Vienna hot dogs, Best times -- watching Chicago Cubs & Bears games, cocktails, horror movies, reminiscing with old friends, writing stories (final story, The Beckoning, just finished)

He made friends wherever he went and will be missed by so many people. Brad’s ashes will be buried at Tahoma National Cemetery in Kent WA in the spring. A celebration of life will take place at Burr Ridge Community Church in Illinois in the near future.