Joseph Vegel

Joseph Vegel, age 94, of Plainfield, Illinois, passed away peacefully on November 23, 2025. Born on April 24, 1931, in Slovenia, Joseph lived a long and remarkable life rooted in craftsmanship, humility, tradition, and deep devotion to his family.

A master cobbler of international renown, Joseph honed his skills from a young age and rose to compete in worldwide competitions. His artistry and meticulous handwork set him apart, especially in crafting custom boots for horseback riding-footwear sought after for its beauty, durability, and unmistakable quality. His workshop was a place of quiet dedication, where every stitch reflected pride in his heritage and love of his craft.

Joseph was also blessed with a warm tenor voice, singing as a second tenor in choirs that celebrated the music of his Slovenian homeland. His simple and gentle nature drew others to him, and he found great joy in the outdoors, where he felt closest to the mountains and forests of his youth.

For more than 70 years, Joseph was the devoted husband of his beloved Mimi. Their bond was extraordinary-inseparable partners who worked side-by-side in every aspect of life. Together they built a home filled with love, industry, and unwavering mutual care.

Those who loved Jože to cherish the memories are his beloved wife, Marija "Mimi"; cherished father of two daughters, Jožica (Veljko) and Bernardka; a beloved grandfather of two grandchildren, Kati (Franci) and Rob (Katie); loving great-grandfather of three great-grandchildren, Franci, Aleks, Sophia; loving brother to Stanko; proud uncle to 25 nieces and nephews across the United States and Slovenia, and host of friends and family across the globe all of whom adored him and looked to him with admiration.

Gone before marked with the sign of the faith are his parents, Janez and Marija; brothers and sisters, Tone, Ivan, Viktor, Rezka, Micka, Franci, and Lozje.

Joseph's legacy will be remembered in the lives he touched, the family he cherished, the traditions he carried forward, and the masterful craftsmanship that bore his name. His quiet strength, gentle spirit, and love of nature will continue to inspire all who knew him.

The family invites you to gather in prayer for a visitation on Friday, November 28, 2025 from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Tezak Funeral Home (1211 Plainfield Road, Joliet). Family and friends are invited to gather for a visitation on Saturday, November 29, 2025 from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary's Slovenian Catholic Mission (14246 Main St, Lemont, IL 60439) followed by the Mass of Christian Burial celebrated by pastor Fr. Metod Ogorevc. Please meet directly at church on Saturday. At the conclusion of the Mass, we will drive in procession to Joze's resting place at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery (7201 Archer Rd, Justice, IL 60458) for a graveside ceremony.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donation may be made to St. Mary's Slovenian Catholic Mission (14252 Main Street, Lemont IL 60439)

May Jože be filled with the spirit of the Lord be welcomed home to enjoy the banquet prepared for him who lived by faith, family and country.

Services entrusted to Hayes Funeral Service and family friend and funeral director, Marko Cepon 815-715-1389.