Joseph R. Straka

Joseph Robert Straka, born June 25, 1936, in Stickney, Illinois, passed away on March 12, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Joe lived a full and meaningful life, defined by his dedication to loving and supporting his family.

A true patriot, Joe served three years in the United States Army following high school. After his military service, he earned a degree from DeVry Technical Institute, which launched a successful 30-year career with Unisys (formerly Burroughs). Through determination, problem solving skills, and integrity, Joe rose to the respected position of Logistics Manager.

In 1969, Joe married the love of his life, Sherry Polabel. They shared 36 years of marriage until her passing in 2005. Together, they built a family that remained the center of Joe's world. He is survived by daughters Jill Hayes (Tim) and Robin Barrett (Tony), grandkids Carter (24), Nicole (21), and Leah (20) as well as nieces Reggie Sorenson (Wayne) and Wendy Walczak.

Joe's greatest joy came from watching his grandchildren grow and succeed. He was never prouder than when watching or recounting their accomplishments, whether academic, athletic, or personal. Joe attended every track, football, and lacrosse game for Carter, never missing an opportunity to support him. He was a constant presence at Nicole's competitive dance competitions, cheering in amazement for her talents in hip hop, lyrical, jazz, and ballet. For Leah, much like his daughters who were also swimmers, Joe followed her swimming career with enthusiasm and precision watching her meets in person or on his computer. Some of his proudest moments were seeing her compete on the national and international stage with USA swimming.

At heart, Joe loved the simple pleasures of life. Beer and pizza on a Friday night with family, a Saturday afternoon movie with popcorn, or just being outdoors. You could almost always find him riding his mower, cutting branches/dead trees, digging stumps and caring for his lawn with pride. He adored his daughters, sons-in-law, grandchildren and was always there for them, ready to help with anything. He was truly a kind and generous soul, faithful friend, loving Papa and Father.

Joe will be deeply missed and will live on through all whose lives he touched.

Visitation Monday, March 23, 2026 from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Modell Funeral Home, 7710 S. Cass Avenue Darien, Illinois 60561

Funeral 9:15 a.m. Tuesday, March 24, 2026 from Modell Funeral Home, 7710 S. Cass Avenue, Darien to Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church. Mass 10:00 a.m. Interment Clarendon Hills Cemetery.