Obituary of Joseph Speaker

Joseph R. "Joe" Speaker, Sr. Age 85. Passed away suddenly, Tuesday, January 29, 2013 at his home. Born October 14, 1927 to the late Elizabeth (nee Segatto) and Joseph Speaker, he was a lifetime resident. A U.S. Army Veteran who served during WWII, Joe was a retired firefighter serving the city of Joliet over 20 years. Beloved husband of 53 years to JoAnn (Wedic); loving father of Joseph (Karen) Speaker III, Karen Speaker Bourg (Rory Rauman) and Nancy (Art) Schultz, Jr. Proud grandpa of Zachary Speaker; Brett and Maggie Schultz. Several nieces and nephews also survive. Preceded in death by his father Joseph; mother and dad, Elizabeth and Dick McKeon; grandson, Arthur Joseph "A.J." Schultz, and sister Marjorie (late Elmer) DePratt. Joe was a dedicated family man, evidenced by the daily visits with his dear wife JoAnn, who has been living with Alzheimers. He will be sorely missed, yet he leaves us inspired to follow his lead as a genuine, giving and caring human being. Funeral services for Joseph R. Speaker will be held on Saturday, February 2, 2013 at 10:15 a.m. from the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home 3200 Black at Essington Rds., Joliet, to St . Paul the Apostle Catholic Church where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. As it was Joe's wish, cremation rites will follow Mass with Inurnment at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials in his name to Odyssey Hospice 4 Westbrook Corporate Center, Ste. 620, Westchester, IL 60154 would be appreciated. Visitation Friday 2-8 p.m. For more information: (815)741-5500 or www.fredcdames.com