John Forkan, a well-known philanthropist and developer of residential and commercial properties in the Chicago area, has passed away, his family said.
Forkan was president and CEO of Celtic Development LTD, which was incorporated in 1982, and became known for his work in the community, giving back to foundations and causes like Women Empowered, Brothers Breaking Bread and Chatham Business Association.
"John's energy for building started when he built his first family house in Palo Hills," his family said in a statement. "In the course of the last 36 years, John successfully built commercial and residential developments in Crest Hill, Orland Park, and Chicago and through Cook County."
Forkan expanded his passion for helping people to undeveloped Chicago neighborhoods, his family said, with focus in Roseland, Englewood and South Shore.
"John used to say enthusiastically, 'Everybody has the right to live in a quality constructed home, and safe neighborhood. It is unacceptable for anyone in this country and the world to live in sub-par housing,'" his family said.
At the time of his death, John had started "developing relationships with aldermen in the key neighborhoods he wanted to serve."
Funeral arrangements have not yet been released.
