Welcome to Grundy County Coroner Department

The Coroner’s office is located in the county seat of Morris, Illinois, approximately 65 miles southwest of Chicago, in Grundy County. Grundy County is approaching 40 thousand in population and is 462 square miles. Some of the great scenery is the Illinois River and the I & M Canal, the historical bike trail and walking trails just to name a few of the scenic views.

Morris is easily accessible by I-80, I-55 and Illinois Route 47. On the North edge of Morris is a newly expanded Washburn Field Airport that can receive small jets. For more information, you can visit the city of Morris web site at www.morrisil.org

Grundy County is known to host many attractions for families such as four Cruise Nights held in downtown Morris and most widely known for the annual Corn Festival held the last week in September. Also attracting many people is the Grundy County Fairgrounds. The Fairground hosts stock car racing every Friday night during the summer months and also the annual County Fair in July.

As any elected official, I am very proud of my office. Personally, I would like to extend my invitation to anyone to visit Grundy County and perhaps someday live in our community. I understand that no one plans to or wants to have any professional encounters with the coroner’s office, however if the unfortunate need does present itself then I want the experience to be professional and compassionate.

Often, I am asked about whatever possessed me to get into this profession. My response to that, knowing death is part of life and unnatural or unexpected deaths will happen then I want to have the most qualified individuals available to carry out the duties of coroner. Having been in police work and the funeral service, I saw where both professions crossed over many times. My staff and I will continue to provide the most comprehensive forensic death investigation possible.

With the growing world of forensics, it is imperative that my staff and I keep abreast of new techniques and training. Television has played a major role in how people view our profession. It is important to allow the public to see and understand what goes on in the coroner’s office. While some of the basics exist on television, the “real” world of death investigation is quite different. As you visit the remainder of my web site, I hope that you are able to get an idea of what the office is really all about. You will also be able to email questions of interest to me of which I will answer appropriately.

Thank you for visiting and I hope your experience is positive.

Sincerely,
John W. Callahan
Coroner of Grundy County