Joseph Eluterio Cartagena

Beloved Master Cosmetologist, professional percussionist, and all-around phenomenal person. Joseph died peacefully, surrounded by loving family and friends, after a six-year battle with prostate and bone cancer.

He leaves behind his cherished daughters Isabella and Sevilla, their mother and his former wife - Sue Mino, mother - Maria Montanez, sister - M. Elisa (Dennis) Mroz, brothers - Michael (Barbara) and Paul (Ebru) Cartagena, nieces - Lisette and Angela, and nephews - Alex, Christopher, and Kerem, and many dear friends throughout the world including Andy Patrick, Robin Hain, Albert Lo, and Jill Zimmerman to name but a few.

Joseph had many gifts. One was his ability to help people see their inner beauty. For some 38 years Joseph's graceful hands, engaging smile, and resonant voice wove their way into so many people's lives. When you sat in his chair you knew you were on a journey that would end in smiles, radiance, and confidence. This career in hairdressing began in 1984 when Joseph graduated with honors and the highest-grade point average from Pivot Point Academy. In 1988, he co-founded the luxury hair salon, Genacelli, which became an Intercoiffure member - the international invitation-only organization of salons. Joseph continued to cut hair and act as Genacelli's Creative Director until his death.

Joseph rose to prominence in his industry and was a sought-after speaker, consultant, product ambassador, and educator. As an educator Joseph developed and facilitated various seminars on hairdressing throughout the U.S., Europe, and China. He was an active member, long- serving board member, and past President of Cosmetologists Chicago. He was also honored with the Pivot Point Academy's prestigious L.E.O. award, which recognizes outstanding alumni in the salon industry who have demonstrated leadership and excellence in education.

His gift with scissors and comb were matched by his gift as a drummer. His passion for music began in the family room banging on stacks of books which were used as drums, playing along with his sister, on accordion and older brother, on guitar. Later, he recruited baby brother, Paul, into drum and bugle corps. Influenced by Airto Moreira, Joseph became one with percussion. A Japanese neighbor recruited him for the Nisei Ambassadors Drum and Bugle Corps, and he never looked back. Throughout the 1970's and 80's he marched with the Guardsmen and The Imperials. In 1982, Joseph moved to Concord, CA, to march with the Blue Devils, winning the World Championship. Many of the scores received remain unchallenged to this day. One of his proudest accomplishments. He returned to Illinois and became an instructor for the Iliana Lancers drum line (1983-89).

In recent years, Joseph has played and recorded with several different people and bands. For over ten years, he's been the drummer for Gooey and Check with Lucy, playing at clubs and street festivals in Chicago.

Joseph was a devoted father and thoroughly enjoyed sharing his gifts with his daughters. Home time was often spent listening to or talking about music or working on hair mannequins. They also shared a passion for DC and Marvel films.

He was a pet-lover, having several dogs and cats throughout his lifetime. He leaves behind his salon buddy Sirius, the 1 1?2 year-old, 18-pound mixed breed, who sat on the laps of so many of his clients over that time and became the brother to his daughters.

Instead of goodbye, Joseph leaves us with his usual parting words - "Be good, be safe, and take care of one another."