ARTHUR G. "JOE" ERDMANN Jr.

Arthur G. "Joe" Erdmann, Jr., 92, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family on Saturday, January 13, 2018. He was the beloved husband of the late Dolores S., nee Corcoran, the cherished father of Mary K. (Terry Leighty) Fox, Joanne C. (David) Jaynes, Margaret L. (Raymond) Witaske, Arthur G. III (Joyce) Erdmann and John S. (Nancy) Erdmann. Joe was the proud grandfather of Laurie Radtke and David Fox, Christopher and Carolyn Witaske, Jamie Krzykowski, Kelsey and Alison Erdmann. He was also the kind, sweet great-grandfather of Taylor and Blake Radtke, Duncan and Cade Fox and Payton and Kash Krzykowski. Joe was educated at Northwestern University and then, after completing his senior year at the University of Miami, received his degree in finance. He followed his father into the Savings and Loan business in Chicago, working at Bell Savings, which his father founded. The experience gained allowed him to continue an expertise in the related insurance business, allowing the family to relocate to the sunshine state. Following a 6 year period there, Joe received an opportunity to return to Chicago where he acquired Oak Park Savings. Shortly thereafter, he was granted approval for the first branch office of a S&L in Illinois. Joe was at the forefront of a new era of "branch banking" in the country. Throughout his career at the newly named, American Savings Association, and then Talman Federal Savings, through an acquisition, Joe served on the Board of other Savings and Loans, as well as many S&L legislative committees. Retirement was joyful, as Joe and Dee enjoyed homes in Lake Geneva and North Palm Beach, Florida. They completed a number of fascinating road trips, as they drove around the country to many historical points of interest, and to visit family and friends. They were especially captivated by the spectacular ocean. Boating was a relaxing hobby for many years. Following his wife's passing, Joe continued to be surrounded by family and friends. He had a thirst for knowledge with reading being a top priority. He enjoyed "easy listening" music and became an iPad expert. And, of course, sports were an exciting interest. He was on top of all the golf, college and professional football and baseball games and was ecstatic when the Cubs won the World Series, flying the "W" with pride. Joe's strong faith remained with him for life. A perpetual optimist, he was a man of strength, bravery and patience, guided always by that faith and by his generous, kind spirit. Of highest priority to Joe was spending quality time with his family, teaching and guiding them through life's challenges, until the end. Mass was offered and burial was held privately with his family. In lieu of flowers, his family would appreciate prayers for Joe and an act of kindness in his honor. For information, 847-359-8020 or www.smithcorcoran.com.