Joe Carrillo

José "Joe" Carrillo Jr., age 87, of Chisholm, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on October 11, 2025. He was born on December 25, 1937, in El Paso, Texas, to José and Guadalupe Carrillo.
Joe was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, teacher, and friend.
He is survived by his loving wife, Karum (Delich) Carrillo; his children, Alicia (Brian Hake) Carrillo, José (Linda) Carrillo III, and Lori; his sister, Alicia Carrillo; his grandchildren, Tony (Ashley), Patrick (Sarah), Jacey, Ashlin, Morgan, Quincy, Ethan, Bradie, Jessie, Myles, Sophia, Esther, and Chanel, and several great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, José and Guadalupe Carrillo, his brother Lorenzo, and his sisters Lola and Vira.
Joe proudly served his country in the United States Air Force and was stationed with the 707th AC&W Squadron in Grand Rapids, MN, before pursuing a lifelong career in education. A passionate and dedicated teacher, he taught Spanish and social studies in the Duluth area, retiring from Denfeld High School.
He was a devout Catholic and an active member of both St. James Parish in Duluth and St. Joseph's Parish in Chisholm, where he served faithfully as a Eucharistic Minister and was a proud member of the Knights of Columbus.
Joe was deeply proud of his Mexican heritage and carried it with dignity throughout his life.
Known for being both opinionated and reserved, he lived with quiet strength and integrity. He especially cherished his family, and loved ice fishing with his grandson Patrick, and his relationship with his grandson Tony held a particularly special place in his heart.
An avid outdoorsman, Joe loved hunting and fishing, pursuits that connected him to nature and brought him great joy over the years.
Mass of Christian burial will be held at 11:00AM on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Chisholm, MN. Visitation will take place an hour prior to mass starting at 10:00AM.
"In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Chisholm First Responders."