Obituary of William Roth

William J. Roth "Willie" Age 91, died peacefully at Our Lady of Angels Retirement Home in Joliet on Monday, December 28, 2015 in the presence of his loving wife of 65 years, Irene "Murph" (nee Murphy). Willie was the beloved father of six sons, William (Bonnie), Michael (Julie), Thomas (Sue), James (Luanne), Robert (Kim) and John (Kim), adored grandfather of 22 and great-grandfather of five. The son of German and Austrian immigrants, William and Stella (Pacen) Roth, Willie and his sister, Jean (Ted) Smith grew up in Joliet. He excelled in football and basketball at Joliet Township High School and Joliet Junior College before enlisting in the U.S. Air Force. He bravely served with honor as a lieutenant during World War II, flying 25 bombing missions over enemy territory. After returning from the war, he earned his business degree at Northwestern University while playing for the Wildcats basketball team. For decades, Willie was an esteemed banker, businessman and financial consultant in the greater Chicagoland area including over 30 years at Bill Jacobs Chevrolet. He was active in countless civic organizations and served as President of the Joliet Region Chamber of Commerce. With Murph by his side, Willie traveled the world. He was an excellent tennis player and an avid golfer. He was a vital member of St. Raymond's Parish and a devoted supporter of Joliet Catholic High/Academy. Willie was appreciated for his faith, kind heart, good sense of humor and passionate dedication to his family. He was a great friend to many and will be missed by all who knew him. Funeral Services for William J. Roth will be held Monday, January 4, 2016 at 9:15 a.m. from the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black at Essington Rds., Joliet to the Cathedral of St. Raymond Nonnatus for Mass at 10:00 a.m. Interment with full military honors will be in Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials in his name to St. Raymond Nonnatus Catholic Church, Joliet Catholic Academy or the Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate would be appreciated. Visitation Sunday from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the funeral home. For information (815) 741-5500.