The Reverend Monsignor Daniel John Jurek, 79, passed away at 10:32 am, Friday, November 14, 2025, at Memorial Hospital, Shiloh, Illinois.
He was born June 14, 1946 to late Stanley J. and Ruth M. (nee Dornhecker) Jurek in Blue Island, Illinois. They both preceded him in death.
Monsignor Jurek was ordained to the priesthood of Jesus Christ by Bishop Albert R. Zuroweste, DD, on June 2, 1972.
Monsignor served as pastor of several parishes in the Diocese of Belleville.
He also taught Sacred Scripture and morals at Gibault Catholic High School in Waterloo, Illinois.
Since his retirement, Monsignor Jurek has assisted in many parishes when needed.
Every time a member of the community of faith dies, we are reminded to live our lives of faith each day with awareness that it could be our last day. We are strengthened by the words of Christ Himself, “I am the resurrection and the life.
Whoever believes in me, even if he dies, shall live. And whoever lives and believes in me shall never die.” (John 11:25-26) As we give thanks to God for his long, whole life and ministry, let us remember Monsignor Jurek often in our prayers.
In accordance with our diocesan tradition, priests are asked to celebrate three Masses for Monsignor Jurek, asking God to be merciful to him and grant him a share in the eternal life promised to his faithful disciples.
He is survived by two brothers: Stanley Jurek of Glenwood, IA and Jack Jurek Frankfort, IL; several nieces and nephews and their spouses and several great nieces and great nephews
He was also preceded in death by a brother and sister-in-law: Frank and Sandra Jurek, a sister-in-law: Claudia Jurek, and a nephew: Kenneth Jurek.
Visitation will be 9:30-11:45 a.m. Tuesday, November 18, 2025 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Prairie du Rocher, Illinois.
The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be held at 12 noon, Tuesday, November 18, 2025 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Prairie du Rocher, Illinois. Officiating: Fr. Godfrey Mullen.
Interment: St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, Prairie du Rocher, Illinois.
Memorials may be made in memory of Monsignor Jurek to the Hincke-Sense Residence for Retired Priests, Belleville, Illinois, St. Joseph Catholic Church, Prairie du Rocher, Illinois, St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, Prairie du Rocher, Illinois, or St. Joseph Youth Ministry, Prairie du Rocher, Illinois.