Joseph D Simonich

Joseph Donald Simonich, age 84, passed away peacefully at his home in Milton, Wisconsin, surrounded by his loving family on Monday, May 12, 2025. Joe was born on December 4, 1940, in Chicago, Illinois, the son of Mary and Joseph Simonich. He graduated from Hinsdale High School in 1960 and went on to complete some college coursework. Joe proudly served in the United States Marine Corps from 1961 to 1967, attaining the rank of Private First Class. On March 11, 1983, he married Sandra (Liedtke) Oliver, with whom he shared many happy years and adventures. Joe served as a Quality Control Specialist at International Harvester until his retirement in 1992. During much of his career there, he also worked as a Police Officer for the Colona, IL Police Department. Following his retirement, Joe remained active in his community through involvement with the Isaac Walton League and by volunteering as a Deputy Sheriff with the Henry County Sheriff's Department. In addition, he enjoyed spending many fall seasons operating a combine for Kevin Urick Farms. A true outdoorsman and adventurer, Joe was a hunter in his younger years and an avid boatsman and fisherman who cherished time on the water with friends and family. Jim Lemmon and he spent many hours on the Sarasota Bay catching fish for a community fish fry in Florida. He was also a passionate train enthusiast, spending countless hours watching trains in various trainyards, building model train layouts, and sharing his deep knowledge of railroad history with friends and family. He took great pleasure in working on his garden train, which filled the entire backyard of their Florida home. Together with Sandra, he explored the country in their RV, making memories and experiencing the beauty of the United States. They also enjoyed cruises to Alaska and Hawaii and adventures in Mexico. Joe is survived by his beloved wife, Sandra Simonich; his stepdaughter, Cassie Finical (Matthew); and his three children: Theresa Simonich-Russ (Rodney), Kevin Simonich (Marnie), and Christa Bruning (Dean). He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren: Cierra, Sydney, Sarina, Kayla, Emily, Joey, Shawn, Michelle, Zachary, Cody and Madison. Additionally, Joe is survived by his brother, Tom Simonich; his sister, Mary Jane Wagner; and two nieces and a nephew. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mary and Joseph Simonich; his sister-in-law, Nancy Simonich; and his son, Brian Simonich. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Rotary Botanical Gardens, 1455 Palmer Dr., Janesville, WI. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, reflecting Joe's deep compassion and his heartfelt wish to see every sick child healed. The family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to MercyHealth Hospice for their support and compassionate care. Albrecht Funeral Homes & Cremation Services is assisting the family. To leave online condolences or sign the guestbook, please visit: www.albrechtfuneralhomes.com