Joseph C. Kadlecek Obituary

1/19/1944 - 4/2/2026

Joseph C. Kadlecek was born to Charles and Ann Kadlecek on January 19, 1944, in Chicago.

He passed away at his home on April 2, 2026, at the age of 82.

Affectionately known to many as "Chicago Joe" or "Willie's Joe," and at times to his family as

"Ornery Grandpa," Joseph lived life to the fullest. He loved his family deeply, eventually moving from Florida to Illinois to help his late sister, Barbara; the two of them were truly two peas in a pod. Joseph enjoyed a good game of cards or Rummikub with his family (at which he cheated endlessly), time on the water fishing, car shows, and attending his grandchildren's many activities, from hockey and racing to band performances. He adored his two daughters, Annette and Lizz, and made it a point to call them every single day.

A creative soul, Joseph enjoyed painting, drawing, and woodworking. He spent years building his 1934 Chevy C-Cab from the ground up with the help of his "garage helper," Lizz. He and Lizz also shared many fond memories participating in the Woodridge yearly homemade boat regatta. Joseph truly loved his cars-especially his 1944 Willys, his 1934 Chevy C Cab, and his

1995 Firehawk-and was looking forward to a summer full of car shows. On most weekends, you could find him at Ace's Classic Cars.

Joe was a natural talker with a story for every occasion; to Joe, no one was a stranger. He had a rare gift for making others laugh, leaving a lasting impact on everyone who crossed his path.

His knowledge was vast, spanning sports (the Bears and Cubs were his favorites), cars. motorcycles, woodworking, and current events. He was also an avid watcher of the Weather Channel, always ready with an update on the forecast.

Throughout his life in Illinois and Florida, Joe held several careers. He worked as both a short-haul and long-haul truck driver and a cement truck driver before retiring as a foreman for the Village of Woodridge.

Joe is survived by his loving daughters, Annette (Craig) Weeden-Gray and Elizabeth (John) Pitner, and his cherished grandchildren: Alexis Weeden, Adam Weeden, and Delaney Pitner.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Ann Kadlecek, and his sisters, Barbara Kadlecek and Maryann Havranek. He also leaves behind many other family members and friends who will miss him dearly.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Cremation arrangements are under the personal care and direction of the DUNN FAMILY FUNERAL HOME with CREMATORY 1801 S. Douglas Road Oswego, IL 60543. For Information, 630-554-3888 or visit his memorial page at www.dunnfamilyfuneralhome.com