John A. Gremer was born December 11, 1935 in Bloomington, IL son of John F. Gremer and Elizabeth M. Gremer (Hoeniges). Big John, as his friends and relatives affectionately called him, went to Trinity Central Catholic High School in Bloomington, Illinois where he earned all-state honors and a full football scholarship to the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign. John went on to play three seasons with the Illini as well as two seasons with the US Marine Corps during his college football career. He earned his Master's Degree from the University of Illinois College of Education in 1960. After a brief stint with the Boston Patriots pro football team, John started his 36 year career at Urbana High School where he taught Physical Education and coached football, baseball and wrestling. He was honored in the Coaches Hall of Fame for football and wrestling and was the Grand Marshall for IHSA wrestling championships. Many of Coach Gremer's players still live in the Urbana area and he is fondly remembered as one of their favorite coaches and mentors. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends camping, fishing - his many trips to Scout Lake in Canada. He was a loyal Cubs and Bears fan. He also enjoyed spending many hours watching his grandchildren in various sporting arenas. John enjoyed refinishing many antiques collected during his travels with his wife Norma. John met and married his college sweetheart, Norma Jean Gremer (Whalen) from Chenoa, Illinois while working in Bloomington, prior to enlisting with the Marine Corps. They were married September 20, 1958. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, his brothers Michael and Robert Gremer, children Julia Gremer, John (Kathleen) Gremer, Michael Gremer, Melinda (Chuck) Billman, Matthew (Cindy) Gremer, and ten grandchildren, Elliott, Kyle (Kate), Emily, Jessica, Alexandra, Nathan, Jaclyn, Conner, Anna, and Nicole. Proceeded in death by both parents, and father-in-law Gerald Whalen (Dorothy) of Chenoa, IL. A celebration of life will be held at St. Patrick's Catholic Church, 708 W. Main, Urbana Monday, October 17 at 10:00 a.m. the Rev. Fr. Joseph Hogan officiating. Gathering immediately following service at St. Patrick's Parish Hall. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Urbana High School Athletic Department, or St. Patrick's Building Fund in Urbana. Condolences may be offered at www.renner-wikoffchapel.com.