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Joseph Michels Obituary
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Joe grew up on Lehnertz Ave. in Aurora. He had fond memories of his childhood on the Hill, his paper route, and his many friends. He graduated from Aurora Central Catholic High School in 1972.
In 1982, Joe married his wife Sue at St. Rita of Cascia Catholic Church in Aurora where they were both longtime members.
Joe is survived by his wife Susan Kramer Michels of Aurora; two sons Matthew (Anna) Michels of Aurora and Andrew (Katie) Michels of Plano, IL; his daughter Katherine Michels of Aurora; two grandchildren Alice and William Michels of Aurora; two brothers Kenneth (Carol) Michels of Aurora and John (Terre) Michels of Sandwich, IL and his sister Cele (Frank) Reinert of Aurora; his brother-in-law Daniel (Carol) Kramer of Fort Myers, FL; sister-in-law Carolyn Michels of Aurora; his former sister-in-law Karen Michels; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents Mary (Petit) and Edward Michels; his brother Thomas Michels; two sisters Carol (Rich) Morse and Mary Michels (Brad) Abel; his mother-in-law Helen (Walter) Kramer; and his dear nephew Peter Michels.
In 1974 Joe began working for Done Rite Plumbing in La Grange, IL. He worked there for six years, finishing his apprenticeship and receiving his Illinois plumber's license. In 1980, Joe left Done Rite to start his own business, Michels Plumbing, in Aurora. He started small, working out of a rented basement. In 1984 Joe bought the old gas station on the corner of Gale and Woodlawn and converted it into the Michels Plumbing shop. Joe's passion was his work and he put all he had into serving others through Michels Plumbing.
Joe was always the person to offer a helping hand where he was needed. He enjoyed playing with his grandchildren, Alice and Will, talking shop with his sons, and going to Paramount shows with his wife and daughter. Joe was a thoughtful man, soft spoken with a dry sense of humor, who didn't complain or speak ill of anyone.
A memorial mass will be held Saturday, April 20, 2024 at 10:30am at St. Rita of Cascia Church in Aurora; Fr. William Etheredge will officiate. Inurnment will be at a later date at St. Joseph Cemetery.
A memorial visitation will be held Friday, April 19, 2024 from 3:00pm until 8:00pm at THE DALEIDEN MORTUARY, 220 N. Lake St., Aurora, 630-631-5500. Please visit our website at www.daleidenmortuary.com where you may leave condolences for Joe's family.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to St. Rita of Cascia Catholic Church, 750 Old Indian Trail, Aurora, IL 60506.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
4 Entries
Laurie Cubbage
April 21, 2024
I´m so sorry to hear that you have lost another brother in Christ. Joe was a very kind a person and a gentleman. As a small girl, I remember always being interested in and impressed at the canoes that he built in the garage on Lehnertz with his friends. He was so happy to be doing whatever he chose to do. A very skilled craftsman. You have my condolences.
Laurie (Michels) Cubbage
Joe Toma
April 20, 2024
Sue! You n your family are in my prayers. One thing our Lord gave us that can´t be taken away and that is Memories. Cherish them well. God bless.
Joe Toma
John McEnroe
April 9, 2024
Dear Sue, Katie, Matt, and Andy,
I´m sorry to read of your loss. Joe was a fine man and good citizen; and a VERY good craftsman. He was most helpful to me over the years. Most importantly, Joe loved you all and will be missed.
You are in my family´s prayers. I know he is celebrating and sharing in God´s glory.
John McEnroe
Russ & Mary George and Family
April 5, 2024
Joe, you are one of the best! Your kind quiet demeanor and your care for others have always been a constant witness to us. We will miss you and wiill look forward to meeting you again on the other side. Sending love and prayers to you, Sue, Matt, Andy and Katie. We love you all.
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