Joseph F. Szabo

Uncle Joe was always the bright spot in a room. He always had a great story or joke and a magnetism that was warm and inviting. He will be missed. Thoughts and prayers.

Rest in peace Mr. Joe. A real gem.

Just the sight of Uncle Joe would bring a smile to everyone. He was charismatic, funny, energetic, and always made you feel like the most important person in the room. Quick with a joke, loved a good homecooked meal, and never forgot to compliment the cook.
He was a member of "The Greatest Generation." He lived up to that by being "the greatest" in everything he did, whether it was a husband, father, uncle, or friend.
Our deepest sympathy to his family and our lasting appreciation that we were blessed to have had him in our lives.

We had a lot of good laughs together at our visits. You will be greatly missed, but will always be in my heart. Love, your favorite nephew, Steve.

Uncle Joe touched many lives with his big heart and joyful spirit. His loving memories are near and dear in my heart. Bear down Chicago Bears!
God Bless. RIP

Uncle Joe was one of the kindest loving soul. You really just smiled when you saw him after entering the room. He always had a story and even though you may have heard it once before he always made you laugh, smile or even cry! Our family is going to miss him deeply! RIP Uncle Joe and say hi to Aunt Shirley for us! We love you!

Clark and family: My deepest sympathies on the loss of your father.

My family lived three houses away from the Szabo family when I was growing up, and Joe Jr. became my best friend (for life). The entire Szabo family was like a second family to me, and I considered myself beyond lucky to have Joe Sr. be my "second father." He was incredibly passionate about so much his family, his work, his sports teams, his music, his acting, his dancing with Shirley ... and more. His enthusiasm for life made a huge impression on me, as did his sense of humor and robust laugh. He and my dad were good friends, and I loved seeing the two of them get together and listen to the music they loved so deeply. I also have a lasting memory of Joe Sr. hitting fly balls to me when I was an fledgling baseball player. I had never seen anyone who could hit such high and deep fly balls, and I couldn't get enough of it. And don't get me started on his abilities as a ping-pong wiz! I spent part of Father's Day last year with Joe Sr., Joe Jr., Jo Carol, Peggy and others, and it was so great to reminisce. (The accompanying photo here shows Peggy reading cards during dinner that evening). Joe lived a rich life, raised a great family and left countless people with beautiful memories. And I'm so glad he got to see his beloved Cubs win the World Series several years ago! Much love from Chuck and Kathy

Joe - I regret never meeting your father Joe Sr., but I know he blessed those around him with goodness. My sympathies and best thoughts to you and your terrific family. Prayers for peace and healing.

My parents (Ralph and Betty Byers) were very close friends with Joe and Shirley. They became friends through their involvement in community theater groups back in the 60s. They socialized often and as long ago as that was, I can still recall Joe being such a fun, happy guy that really enjoyed life. They all had such a great time together. My parents lived in California for many years, however when I married in 1982 in Chicago, Joe and Shirley attended which made for a great reunion of dear friends. Rest in peace, Joe you made the world a better place.

extend my deepest condolences to the Szabo family! I am a friend of Peggy! So sorry for your loss my dear friend!

Peggy,so sorry for the loss of your dad. May god give you strength at this time. Karen Ferrer

We will miss Joe, we have so many memories. Joe was the life of the party. He made all the family gatherings so enjoyable, always had a smile. He was a great Father, husband, Grandfather and a favorite Uncle, loved by all.

My loving Uncle who mentored me through life. He was an Uncle, a Brother, and Father to me and my life has forever been molded by his wisdom and love. He will remain in my heart forever.