Joseph Paul "Joe" Jarmusz

Joseph Paul “Joe” Jarmusz, Sr., 73, of Niles, died peacefully Thursday, April 23, 2026, in the comfort of his home with his family by his side. His life began August 9, 1952, in Chicago, Illinois, being the youngest of three born to Lawrence and Serena Jarmusz. He married Karin Widman June 2, 1973, in Elmhurst, Illinois.

Joe was a great friend and an even greater family man. At the center of his life was his wife, Karin, with whom he shared a lasting partnership built on commitment, loyalty, and love. He was a dedicated provider who worked tirelessly to support his family, always striving to set an example of what hard work, responsibility, and perseverance could look like.

He spent much of his life in the car business, a field he was deeply passionate about—even if he often described work as “peachy” with a knowing smile. Outside of work, Joe was an avid and highly skilled fisherman, with enough knowledge and gear to rival a small tackle shop. He was also a natural storyteller, able to captivate a room for hours with his humor and charm.

Joe enjoyed crafting and building models, but nothing meant more to him than time spent with his community and family. He dedicated himself to coaching local youth in football and basketball, taking pride in mentoring and encouraging the next generation. He was incredibly organized and dependable, always making sure he showed up for his family’s events—whether it was sports, recitals, or cheerleading—never missing a chance to support them.

A lifelong and devoted fan of the Chicago Bears, Joe’s passion for the team was unmatched. From an extensive collection of memorabilia to tattoos that proudly displayed his loyalty, being a Bears fan was more than a hobby—it was part of who he was. It also became a way for him to connect with others, bringing together family and friends through shared excitement and tradition.

His greatest pride was the life he built with Karin and the family he worked so hard to support.

Joe will be greatly missed by family and friends. He is survived by his wife of fifty-two years, Karin Jarmusz of Niles; sons, Joey Jarmusz of Bartlett, Illinois, Johnny (Tara) Jarmusz of Bridgman; one granddaughter, Alyssa Tagliere of LaPorte, Indiana; two grandsons, Elliott of Ottawa, Illinois, Easton of Bridgman: and sister, Gerry Kawohl of Woodbury, Minnesota.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother.

The family will observe a private remembrance.

The family prefers contributions in memory of Joe to be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tennessee 38105, or by visiting stjude.org/donate.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Halbritter Wickens Funeral Services, Niles. Please share a memory or a message online: halbritterwickens.com.