Conley Funeral Home, 116 W Pierce Street, Elburn, IL (2026)

06/23/2026

Life Story and Service Details For
KURT WENZEL

Kurt W. Wenzel, age 76, of Machesney Park, IL, passed away Monday, June 22, 2026, surrounded by the love and prayers of his family, leaving behind a legacy of devotion, storytelling, and service.

Kurt was born in Aurora, IL, on November 1, 1949, to William and Joyce Wenzel. Kurt grew up in New Milford, Illinois. Some of his favorite childhood memories were made following his grandfather Evar Holmberg on the family farm. Kurt graduated from Guilford High School in Rockford, Illinois, in 1967. In 1969, Kurt enlisted in the United States Navy and served honorably until 1972. He attended Rock Valley College, earning an Associate Degree in Science and built a successful career as a systems analyst.

In 1974, Kurt met the love of his life, Donna, at Barber-Colman. They were married on March 21, 1975 and built a beautiful life together, raising four children and sharing more than five decades of love, laughter, and partnership.

Kurt loved black licorice, comic books, science fiction and telling stories.

He leaves his loving wife of 51 years, Donna Wenzel; four children: Jonathan (Jennifer) Wenzel, Sonja (Scott) Schemel, Sarah (Jason) Phillips, and Ursula Sobottka; 7 grandchildren; Madeline & Mason Davis, Kelly & Kate Schemel, David Phillips, Sara Wenzel, and Sylvia Sobottka; and 2 siblings: Susan Wenzel-Myles and Robert Wenzel.

He is reunited with his parents, William and Joyce Wenzel and his step-mother Marie Brennan-Wenzel, who preceded him in death.

Visitation will be on Thursday, June 25, 2026 from 11a.m.-12 p.m., followed by a funeral service to celebrate his life at 12 p.m., at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn, IL 60119. Interment will immediately follow the service at Blackberry Township Cemetery.

06/11/2026

Updated Service information

Life Story & Service Details
BRIAN SIGNORELLA

Brian's family will host a Celebration of Life on August 2, 2026 from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Elburn Lions Park, 500 Filmore St., Elburn, IL 60119

Brian Signorella, age 39, found the everlasting peace he sought on June 8, 2026. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories, and will be forever remembered by all who knew him.

Brian was born on August 17, 1986, to his proud and loving parents, Michael and Karen Signorella.

He grew up in Maple Park, Illinois, and attended local schools, graduating from Kaneland High School with the Class of 2004. During his school years, Brian developed a passion for wrestling that began at the age of eight and remained a defining part of his youth. Dedicated and disciplined, he spent countless hours honing his skills and maintaining peak condition. One of his proudest accomplishments was becoming an IKWF Middle School State Finalist, earning second place as an eighth grader. His commitment and perseverance carried him through a successful high school wrestling career in the 119- and 125-pound weight classes, while also forging lifelong friendships along the way.

After attending Waubonsee Community College for two years, Brian transferred to Northern Illinois University, where he earned a bachelor's degree in Computer Science. During his college years, his aspirations grew alongside his faith. Brian embraced Catholicism and was baptized, a decision that became an important part of his life's journey.

In 2012, Brian met the love of his life, Amber Semmerling, through mutual friends while attending a concert at the Roundhouse in Aurora. While the music may have been memorable, Brian's attention was soon focused entirely on Amber. Their relationship blossomed, and they were married on July 2, 2017, at Aquaviva Winery in Maple Park.

The couple began their married life in Maple Park before purchasing a home in Elgin in 2019. There they built a loving family and were blessed with two daughters, who became the center of Brian's world.

Brian's fascination with technology began at a young age. As a middle and high school student, he would take computers apart and put them back together, driven by an endless curiosity and desire to understand how things worked. His thirst for knowledge never faded.

While completing his education, Brian began his career in information technology with Kaneland Schools before joining Intersites. His entrepreneurial spirit inspired him to pursue several small business ventures over the years. Later, he found a fulfilling career in education, serving as a Senior Applications Developer, where his talents, creativity, and dedication left a lasting impact on those around him.

Brian's heart, capacity for love, and ability to empathize with others knew no bounds. He treasured his many friendships and shared a special affection for animals, especially his beloved German Shepherd and long-haired Chihuahua.

His passion for life was matched only by his remarkable work ethic. He lived by the mantra, "Plan the work, and then work the plan." Once Brian set a goal for himself, he pursued it with determination and focus until it was achieved.

When he wasn't immersed in technology or building applications, Brian could often be found enjoying a game of bags. He loved the game so much that he could play from morning until night—and sometimes did. He also found great joy on the water, spending countless days navigating the family's pontoon boat across the waterways of their favorite destination, the Lake of the Ozarks. It was there that many treasured memories were made with family and friends. The lake also held special significance as the place where Brian proposed to Amber and later celebrated his bachelor party.

Brian looked forward to sharing his love of boating with his daughters, just as he shared his gift for bringing people together and ensuring everyone around him was having a good time. He was proud to come from a large family, and perhaps that is why entertaining came so naturally to him. Even the simplest family gatherings often included dozens of loved ones, filling every occasion with laughter, conversation, and connection.

Above all else, Brian was a devoted husband, father, son, brother, uncle, and friend. His kindness, generosity, and unwavering love will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Brian is survived by his loving wife, Amber Signorella; his cherished daughters, Ella (3) and Abby (1); his parents, Michael and Karen Signorella; his brother, Anthony M. Signorella; his special nephew and niece, Logan and Ava Signorella; many aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members; his mother-in-law, Dawn Semmerling; and an ever-growing circle of friends who will carry his memory in their hearts.

Brian was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Anthony and Jean Heyob; his paternal grandparents, Anthony and Shirley Signorella; his uncles, Joseph, Roger, and Paul Heyob; and his father-in-law, Scott Semmerling.

A celebration of Brian’s life and spirit will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in Brian’s name. Checks may be made to the “Brian P. Signorella Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Memories and tributes may also be forwarded to the same address, the Conley Funeral Home page, or at www.conleycare.com.

06/08/2026

Life Story for
RAYMOND "RAY" NIELSEN

Raymond “Ray” C. Nielsen, age 88, of St. Charles, IL, passed away surrounded by the love and prayers of his family on Saturday, May 30, 2026.

He was born in Chicago, IL on April 2, 1938, to proud and loving parents, Chester and Era Nielsen.

Ray grew up in Chicago for a time before moving to Melrose Park where he attended local schools. He graduated from Leyden High School with the class of 1956. Not only did he receive his diploma, Ray was blessed with the love and adoration of Judith Brown.

When Judith and Raymond were juniors, Raymond made a call to a mutual friend and asked if they thought that Judy would go out with him, she did and the rest was history. The two were married March 8, 1958, at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Franklin Park. That day would set off a partnership that was full of love and adventures.

Following graduation, Ray entered the Electricians Union, Local 701, where he learned a valuable trade and one that would take him into retirement. As an electrical contractor, he and a friend created Acacia Electric where he plied his trade and made a name for himself for his dedication and strong work ethic.

Ray was a proud 68 year member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local 701, for many years. He also was a member of the Winnebago Sailing Association.

Ray and Judith always did everything together. They loved to live in the outdoors and enjoyed camping, hunting, skiing, snowmobiling and especially fishing (even though Judith out fished him at every opportunity). They were an adventurous duo who raced sailboats and explored life on the water. They passed down the love of angling to their children and grandchildren, complete with all the tall tales that often accompanied each cast. They enjoyed their “second home”, a cabin in Wisconsin with both family and friends, making memories around the fire, taking in the breathtaking beauty that Mother Nature had in store. Ray always kept an eye out for fossils and later special rocks that he and his daughter Susan would enjoy tumbling and polishing, creating tangible art that made each find a treasure. Above all, it was the times he spent surrounded by the love of his family that made him the happiest man alive.

He now leaves his three children: Susan Hendricksen, Sheryl (Ken) Sands, Christine (Kevin) Taylor; his eight grandchildren; and nine great grandchildren; many nieces, nephews and a close family of friends.

He is reunited with her loving wife Judith; his parents, Chester and Era Nielsen; two brothers: Robert and Walter Nielsen and if previous good times with friends are any indication, Ray is now enjoying one the greatest reunions he ever had.

Private family services will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to your local veteran’s or homeless charity. Memories and tributes may be left on the Conley Funeral Home page, or at www.conleycare.com.

06/08/2026

Life Story and Service Details For
JOY RUBO

Joy Rubo, age 78, of Sugar Grove, IL, passed away Thursday, June 4, 2026, surrounded by the love and prayers of her family.

She was born in Aurora, IL, on December 10, 1947, to proud and loving parents, Challuce and Ruth Dickens.

Joy grew up on the east side of Aurora and attended local schools. She graduated from East Aurora High School with the class of 1966.
Joy met her future husband at her work, Richards/Wilcox, in Aurora. They caught each other’s eye while walking down the hallway. Whatever they had been thinking about changed in an instant and before you know it, a love was born. They walked together again, this time down the aisle, on June 22, 1968, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Aurora. They began their new life together in Aurora until they bought a home in North Aurora in 1969. In 1978 the now growing family moved to their present home in Sugar Grove.
While Joe worked outside the home while the children were growing, Joy made sure she worked just as hard, ensuring that he had not just a house but a warm and loving home to return to each evening.

Joy dedicated many years to the Sugar Grove Fire Department Women’s Auxiliary, and worked on the committee for Christmas In The Grove.

Joy and her family always looked forward to family vacations to Alexandria, MN, where fishing and floating were the specials of the day. While at home, they continued the fun at the Lucky 50 Club in Montgomery where more memories were made. Board and card games dominated when family gathered around the table, including rousing games of LCR, Family Feud, not to mention Bingo. Joy always wore a smile when she knew there was an upcoming trip to the “boat” in Aurora. Off the boat she kept a keen eye out for any W***y Wonka machine’s where she would try her luck. During the holidays, especially Christmas and Valentine’s Day, Joy was quick to fill the home with wonderful smells of cookies of all kinds. She was always excited to hide Easter eggs each year, and put up the Christmas Tree each year, anticipating the smiles and exaltations when it was time to open presents. Any family function had to include the ever-present strawberry pretzel Jello salad and broken glass Jello salad. Her family gave Joy the best memories as she attended every event, whether it be sports, water fights, plays, drill competitions, court of honors for scouts and concerts. Her lap and her heart had room for a long list of cats and dogs that made the "family" complete. Both she and Joe dedicated many years to Marriage Encounter and were den leaders for the cub scouts. She was one of a kind and will be missed by all.

She leaves her loving husband of almost 58 years, Joe Rubo; two children: Scott (Carrie) Rubo and Jodie Rubo; 3 grandchildren; Jacob, Zachary and Michaela Rubo; 3 siblings: Mel (Andy) Frank, Rick (Patti) Dickens and Nan (Larry) Schum; two special God children: Dusty Dickens and Erin Maniscalli and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who will never forget her.
She is reunited with her parents, Challuce and Ruth Dickens who preceded her in death.

Visitation will be from 5-7 p.m., followed by a funeral service to celebrate her life at 7 p.m., Wednesday, June 10, 2026, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn, IL 60119. Interment will follow on Thursday, June 11, 2026, at 10 a.m. at St. Joseph Cemetery, Aurora, IL.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be sent to the National Kidney Foundation: support.kidney.org or to the charity of your choice. Memories and tributes may be left on the Conley Funeral Home page, or at www.conleycare.com.

06/03/2026

Life Story and Service information for
CAROL M GRIESHABER

Carol M. Grieshaber, age 83, of Huntley, passed away peacefully into the arms of her Savior, Tuesday, June 2, 2026.

She was born November 27, 1942, in Chicago, to proud and loving parents, Adam and Mary Porucznik.

Carol grew up in Chicago and attended local schools. She graduated from St. Clements Catholic High School.

Carol met her future husband at a local dance. John Grieshaber caught her eye across the dance floor and subsequently swept her off her feet. They were united in marriage on July 29, 1961. They began their new life together in Chicago for a time before settling in Wood Dale where they continued to raise a family.

Carol worked while the kids were at school as a secretary at what is now Aspire, who provides support for mentally challenged persons. In time she became an administrator in human resources because in part, she was excellent at deciphering different medical plans and tailoring them to each person in need. After almost 40 years of dedication, Carol left her desk for the last time when she retired in 2008.

Carol was a proud Girl Scout in her younger years and most recently participated in a reunion celebrating the camps 100 year anniversary along side her great-niece. She was also active in the Del Webb Garden Club where her hard work brought out God’s beauty in every bloom.

Carol was dedicated to her family and never missed a chance to support the arts. She often traveled many miles to sit front row at her grandchildren’s countless performances and made time to cheer the loudest at many soccer games they played in. That volume doubled when her beloved Chicago Cubs won the World Series in 2016. Her opinions were staunch and willingly defended, but her heart was always open to friendships from all walks of life. A family cabin in Wisconsin, on a bluff overlooking the Mississippi, became a camping and cabin refuge for family and friends alike, making hundreds of memories every summer and holiday. Carol travelled to Alaska but was overjoyed to travel to New York and take in a Broadway performance or the Rockette’s. Neil Diamond was her favorite artist and made her heart beat faster, but any live concert starring her grandchildren was a must to attend. She traveled outside the U.S. as well, celebrating her heritage in Poland and taking in the sights and sounds of Europe. At home working in her garden, Carol found peace and happiness and kept a home that had a place for everything, and everything in its place. Her hands also were deft and picked out tunes on the guitar. When she was 38 she came down with scleroderma and the following years gave her many challenges, but Carol fought through each and every one of them, including cancer. Her strength was indomitable, and her steadfast faith brought her through them all. Nothing gave her more joy than to be surrounded by her family, especially her grandchildren. She will be remembered for generations.

She leaves three children: Cheryl (Jim) Moeller, Ken (Janell) Grieshaber and Keith (Claudia) Grieshaber; 6 grandchildren: Justin Moeller, Nathan (Melissa) Moeller, Emily Moeller, Benjamin Grieshaber, Gabby Grieshaber and Paige Grieshaber; two great-grandchildren: Alice Moeller and Owen Moeller; one sister, Marilyn (Joe) Weber; sisters-in-law, Mary Beth Porucznik, Loraine (John) Weber, and Dianne (Jim) Riley; many nieces, nephews and a family of friends who will miss her dearly.

Carol is reunited with her parents, Adam and Mary Porucznik, her husband John Grieshaber; her brother Paul Porucznik and a daughter-in-law, Mary Pat Grieshaber who preceded her in death.

Visitation will be from 4-8 p.m., Monday, June 8, 2026, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W Pierce St., Elburn, IL 60119. A Mass to celebrate her faith will begin at 1 p.m., Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at St. Gall Catholic Church, 43W885 Hughes Rd, Elburn, IL. Private family interment will follow at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Aspire at aspirechicago.com, or your favorite non-profit. Memories and tributes may be left on the Conley Funeral Home page, or at www.conleycare.com.

06/02/2026

Life Story and Service Details For
RANDOLPH W. CHAFFEE JR

Randolph W. Chaffee, Jr., 83, of Geneva, Illinois, passed peacefully into the arms of his Savior on Wednesday, May 27, 2026.

Randy was born in Stamford, Connecticut on February 18, 1943, to parents, Randolph Sr. and Elizabeth (Nicholas) Chaffee.
He was raised in Avon Lake, Ohio and later Tampa, Florida where he attended and graduated from Robinson High School in 1961. He was proud to have been captain of the football team and a member of the all-city scholastic team. Not only was he a great athlete and student, he was also an artist, placing first in a state-wide high school art contest. Art became his life-long passion.
He attended the University of Florida for two years then began a career in advertising art in New York City. The career was put on hold in 1964 when Randy enlisted in the United States Navy. Stationed at Pearl Harbor, the Navy employed his artistic talent as part of the admiral staff where he had the opportunity to meet Eva Gabor and paint her portrait. It earned him a kiss he never forgot. He left the Navy in 1967.

Randy resumed his art career in Chicago working for “the Art Bunch, Inc.” contributing memorable advertising work for Virginia Slims ci******es and other brands. He loved living in the city. He'd spend his free time creating original pieces of art and touring National History Museums around the country with his camera. He was an expert marksman and won numerous awards for his keen skills at Gunsite Academy in Arizona. He settled in Geneva, Illinois.
Randy said he was “retrieved by our Lord’s grace back into church communion with Him in 1980 in Uptown, Chicago.” His Christian faith became a significant part of his life and identity. He was a student of theology and Bible study, amassing a 2,000 volume theology library. He was active in a number of different churches over the years; the three closest to his heart were St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Geneva, Grace Orthodox Presbyterian Church and Hope Anglican Church in Elburn. He considered his brothers and sisters in Christ as his family.

After retirement, Randy continued to be a lifelong learner and enjoyed reading and debating American history, Christian theology, and unsolved crimes. He loved caring for (and spoiling) his cats. He enjoyed listening to classical music and creating scrapbooks of the Holy Land, especially following a very memorable visit to Israel.

Randy was preceded in death by his parents, Randolph Sr. and Elizabeth Chaffee, as well as his sister, Dorothy Hurd. He leaves behind two nephews, longtime friends Jean Moreau and Ron Lewis and many other brothers and sisters in Christ.

Services will be held at Grace Orthodox Presbyterian Church at 200 N. Main St. in Elburn on Sunday, June 7 at 1:00 pm.

Randy spent his final years under the loving care of River Glen of St. Charles. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to River Glen’s employee appreciation fund (checks might not be cashed until year end):

River Glen of St. Charles
(memo line - “Employee Appreciation Fund”)
975 North 5th Avenue
St. Charles, Il 60174

05/27/2026

Service Details and Life Story for
WILLIAM WELBORN III

William “Jack” Jackson Welborn III, age 64, of Elburn, formerly of Easley, SC, passed away Sunday, May 24, 2026, surrounded by the love and prayers of his family.

He was born in Columbia, SC, on June 3, 1961, to proud and loving parents, Elizabeth “Beth” and William “Bill” Jackson Welborn Jr.
Jack spent most of his younger years in Atlanta and attended local schools. He graduated from Easley High School in South Carolina.
He received his Bachelor of Science degree from Clemson University.

Jack found the love of his life, Lesa Sissel, at Clemson, and they were united in marriage on June 22, 1985, in Greenville, SC.

The new chapters of their life together began just outside Greenville, SC, until they made a home in Atlanta, GA. They spent many years making memories and raised a family until they migrated north to Mt. Airy, NC and then to Greenwich, NY. The Midwest came calling when they settled in Elburn in 2022.

Jack was immensely proud of being a mechanical engineer and worked in prestress concrete his entire career. He started on the line but moved up through the ranks, ending as Executive Vice President of County Prestress & Precast.

Jack was a proud and longtime member of PCI, Prestressed Concrete Institute, an industry group.

Jack was a great friend to many, but a family man at heart. When he wasn’t taking trips and making memories with his family at Pawley’s Island South Carolina, especially spending time under the pier hiding from the sun, you could find him on the golf course. In recent times, pheasant hunting with his friends provided enjoyment and fun stories. On the weekends, you could find him mowing and taking care of the lawn, followed by putting steaks on the grill. His hands were ever busy, recounting hundreds of memories of his grandfather in the wood shop, creating his own tributes to artistry and then passing down his knowledge to his son. His legacy will live on and his memory will never fade, a testament to a man who stood above all the rest.

He leaves two loving children: Jessica Leigh Welborn and Jackson Welborn; one brother, Graham (Cheryl Loretan) Welborn; a sister, Elizabeth (Michael) Gould and numerous nieces and nephews.

He now is reunited with his parents, Bill and Beth Welborn; his loving wife, Lesa Welborn, and one brother, Tom Welborn, who preceded him in death.

A family celebration of life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Samaritan’s Purse, samaritanspurse.org. Memories and tributes may be left on Conley Funeral Home page, or at www.conleycare.com.

05/26/2026

Life Story and Service Details for
EDWIN "EDDIE" WOLD

Edwin “Eddie” Wold, 82, of Aurora, IL, passed away on Sunday, May 17, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

He was born on September 17, 1943, in Chicago, IL to parents, Edwin and Dorothy Wold.

Eddie grew up in Winfield, Illinois where he attended local schools, graduating from West Chicago Community High School, class of 1963. Throughout elementary school he was involved with the youth baseball league and was a trainer for the basketball team throughout high school.

Eddie spent the bulk of his working years in shipping and receiving, doing so for a variety of companies over the years. In the late 90’s Eddie began his retirement.

Eddie was a long time member of the Illinois State Horseshoe Pitching Association and belonged to various bowling leagues over the years.

Eddie was an avid Cubs fan and rooted for them even when they were down and never missed a game. In his free-time he loved nothing more than to unwind with a good puzzle. When his son, Jason was growing up, he was highly involved and thoroughly enjoyed coaching Jason’s baseball team. His pride and joy after his son Jason was his granddaughter, Abigail. Eddie looked forward to any opportunity to spend with her and loved to see her bright smile. Eddie will be truly missed by all of his loved ones.

Eddie is survived by his son, Jason (Rebecca Schneider) Wold; his granddaughter, Abigail Wold; his siblings: Douglas (Jan) Wold, Dennis (Jill) Wold, Penny (Jeff) Janacek, Diadra (Pat) Dodd, and Mark (Jenny) Wold; and many extended family members.

Eddie was preceded in death by his parents, Edwin and Dorothy Wold.

A visitation will be held on Monday, June 1, 2026, from 10am to 12pm at Conley Funeral Home at 116 W. Pierce Street, Elburn, IL 60119. A funeral service will immediately follow the visitation at 12pm also at Conley Funeral Home. Interment will immediately follow the service at River Hills Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in Eddie’s name. Checks may be made to the “Edwin Wold Memorial” and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address, the Conley Funeral Home page, or at www.conleycare.com.

05/26/2026

Life Story and Service Details for
PAMELA MILLER

Pamela A. Miller passed away peacefully in her sleep on Thursday May 21st, 2026, surrounded by loved ones, and the laughter of her great granddaughter.

Pam was born on September 11th, 1943, in Rochester, New York to parents Harold and Verna McCoy who later welcomed Pam’s little sister, Paula. She grew up in Rochester, New York graduating from the local high school with dreams to pursue a degree in medical technology which she obtained by attending Carnegie College in Cleveland Ohio. After completing her degree, Pam moved back home to Rochester where she secured a job at Highland hospital working in the lab. She would later meet the love of her life, James Miller.

Pam and Jim were married on September 18th, 1965. Together they had two beautiful children, Jeff and Jenny, who were their pride and joy. After several moves, and 3 homes already built, Pam and Jim built what would be their 4th, and forever home in Geneva, IL in 1978. Pam briefly worked for an ophthalmologist where she excelled at running the office. However, her true calling in life was dedicating herself to being the best wife, mother, and later, grandma. Pam and Jim were lucky enough to have 4 granddaughters who, just like their own children, became Pam and Jim’s pride and joy.

Aside from traveling, and spending time with family Pam was part of many clubs and organizations including the garden club, women’s club, welcome wagon, church committee and numerous book clubs.

She had a love for flowers as her favorite being roses and yellow daffodils. She loved gardening as she and Jim worked hard to transform their backyard into their own beautiful paradise. They traveled all over, visiting countless beautiful places, one of which being her favorite, Hilton Head Island where they would spend 2 weeks out of the year. She enjoyed antiquing, bird watching, reading, shopping, walking along the beach, and spending time with her loved ones.

She is Survived by her husband, James; her sister, Paula (Tad); her son, Jeff (Stephanie); her daughter, Jenny (Michael); four grandchildren: Jacquie (Taylor), Heather (Brian) Gabby (Andy), Icy (Thomas); her great granddaughter, Addison; and many extended family members, and dear friends.

Pam is preceded in death by parents Harold, and Verna McCoy.

A memorial visitation will be held on Saturday, June 6, 2026, from 1pm to 3pm at Conley Funeral Home at 116 W. Pierce Street, Elburn, IL 60119.

05/20/2026

Life Story and Service Details for
JOSEPH MARTINEK JR.

Joseph Martinek Jr., 82, of Crest Hill, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 16, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Joe was born in Berwyn, Illinois on December 21, 1943, to parents, Joseph and Adeline Martinek.

Joe grew up in Berwyn where he attended local schools, graduating from Morton High School, class of 1962.

The two years following graduation, Joe briefly studied at Morton Junior College. In 1965 Joe enlisted in the Navy during the beginning of the Vietnam War. During the four years he served, he spent time on the S.S Harry E. Hubbard and was on the S.S. Enterprise when by accident, the bombs on board were detonated by a jet taking off. Joe spent the majority of his time in the Navy building bombs. He would leave the Navy to return home in 1969.

In August of 1970, Joe attended a singles event where he would meet Lynn Bartscht. Joe swore it was love at first sight and that from the second she walked through the door he knew he was going to marry her. His intuition was not wrong, the two were married on February 13, 1971, in Glen Ellyn, Illinois at Faith Lutheran Church. Prior to their wedding Joe had already completed his bachelor’s degree at University of Illinois Urbana- Champaign. He would years later complete his master’s program for management and development of human resources from Lewis University.
Joe was most proud of the 22 years he spent working as a Firefighter for the town of La Grange. He would reach the rank of lieutenant prior to retirement. He retired from the fire service in 1993 at the age of 50.

Joe was a phenomenal public speaker and won numerous awards while speaking with the group Toast Masters. He spoke on a broad range of topics, and his biggest strength was his in-depth research.

Joe and Lynn spent their winters in Largo, FL, residing in their mobile home. Joe made full use of this setup to accommodate his love of golf which he could then play year-round. He also loved to take Lynn sightseeing on a whim; no two days were alike. At his core, Joe was an extremely hard worker with a work ethic that was quite literally forged in fire. He made friends easily everywhere he went. Ever the family man, he always made taking care of them a priority. He will be missed dearly by his family and friends.

Joe is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Lynn Martinek; his son, Karl (Deanna) Martinek; his grandchildren: Shane (Amanda) Powell and Cami Powell; his great granddaughter, Kara Powell; and his sisters: Therese Klausler and Mary Lou Sandvik.

Joe is reunited with his parents, Joseph and Adeline Martinek; his grandson, Erin Martinek and his great grandson, Garry Powell, who both passed in infancy.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, from 3pm to 8pm at Conley Funeral Home at 116 W. Pierce Street, Elburn, IL 60119. A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at 11am with visitation prior to the service from 10am to 11am, also at Conley Funeral Home. Interment will immediately follow the service at Kaneville Cemetery in Kaneville, IL.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to a firefighters organization of your choice in Joe’s memory. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address, the Conley Funeral Home page, or at www.conleycare.com.

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