Joseph 'Papa Joe'-Donzelli-Obituary

Photo courtesy of Nelson Funeral Home

Joseph 'Papa Joe' Donzelli

Park Ridge, Illinois

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DIED
January 13, 2022
LOCATION
Park Ridge, Illinois

Obituary

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Nelson Funeral Home Obituary

The world has lost a gracious presence. Joseph John Donzelli Jr., aka Papa Joe, passed away on January 13, 2022 with his children by his side. Papa was a baker by trade working his early years at Donz Bakery and Dominos Bakery. He left the bakery business to have more manageable hours and spent many years at Jewel Food Stores working in warehouse management. He later retired to create CB Distribution, a pallet brokerage. His love for God was matched closely by his love for people. Family was the center of his life, led by his wife MaryLou (deceased 2017). He is survived by his 3 children and spouses: Joe & Lynn Donzelli, Jim & Julie Donzelli, and Laura & David Henze; his 10 diamonds: Jake, Joe, Julia, and Jacquelyn, Nick, Matthew, and Joey, Michael, Jonathan, Mark.  Amazing at conversation, Papa offered full attention, empathy and wisdom. Papa loved to laugh, dance, and golf. Spending much time in Tucson, he had many friends everywhere he went. He was a man of great faith, offering his suffering for the betterment of our nation. His warmth and friendly demeanor was infectious and many were left with a smile after the briefest of encounters. His hug was as sincere as his sign off, XOLP...Hugs and kisses love Papa. 


He will be greatly missed on earth but has surely been welcomed in heaven, joined again with his beloved wife MaryLou and others.


Visitation, Friday, January 21st, 2pm - 8pm at Nelson Funeral Home, 820 W. Talcott Road, Park Ridge, IL. Funeral prayers, Saturday, January 22nd, at Nelson Funeral Home 8:45am, procession to St. Giles Catholic Church, 1045 Columbian Ave., Oak Park, IL for 10am Funeral Mass, Entombment following at Queen of Heaven Catholic Cemetery, 1400 S. Wolf Road, Hillside, IL.


In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Papa Joe Donzelli Unitas Scholarship: St. Rita High School, 7740 S. Western Ave. Chicago, IL 60620 www.stritahs.com/donate


Live Stream Option for Mass of Christian Burial https://youtu.be/q6HQZQPV_-E

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Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

Just looked at what I have said before and everyone's beautiful comments.
Joe was obviously a very special man in so many peoples eyes. Now he is looking into MaryLou's and Jesus eyes. And they are so happy to have Joe with them. My continued love goes out to his wonderful family who I knew for so many years.

On this cold wintery day it is good to start it out with thinking of someone as warm, smiley , Godly and good as Joe. I had the honor of knowing Joe, MaryLou and his kids for many years at Our Lady of Ransom Church. What a wonderful family !!!! Joe's warmth will remind me today to never focus on the coldness of the world but on the gifts we have been given by God. Joe you were one of them . Love you Joe. You live on forever in many hearts.

Just thought I would start my day reminding myself and all who knew and loved Joe that he was such a special
"Star in the sky". He will be forever missed and loved.

Joe was an impeccable guy honest caring and cared very much about the people around him he was my boss for years he will b missed will never forget him he was so gracious taught me a lot about things in general my condolences to his whole family

Met Joe at the Niles fitness center many years ago just heard about his passing a real nice guy and a great family man.

I knew Joe from our days at Jewel in the early 1970’s. There was a period of time when we drove together to work as we both lived in Park Ridge. He even sold me a couple of cars at Rizza. His thoughtfulness was evident in all who encountered him. His pride in his family also on full display. Thankful that I considered him a friend.

Joe was one of my favorite people. He was kind and honest, and I consider myself lucky to have known him. ❤ Rest In Peace my friend. Thank you for all that you taught me. Thank you for all that you taught me

I’m very sorry to hear about Mr. Donzelli. I enjoyed going to my Dad’s (Carl Elza) work and talking with Mr. D. He gave timeless, sound advice that I remember as a young kid and live by today. My father was very fond of Mr. D and appreciated him as a friend and boss. May he rest in peach and blessings to your family.

My condolences to the Donzelli family. Joe had a heart of gold and was a bright light at Jewel.