Joseph A. Vasquez

1943 - 2024

Coach Joseph A. Vasquez
Born: June 10, 1943
Died: August 20, 2024
Born on June 10, 1943 and raised in Oglesby, Joe – "Coach" – worked at his alma mater LaSalle-Peru Township High School for over 40 years. He taught English and coached football for generations of teens growing up in the area. Born to be an educator, Joe's great joy was interacting with his students and freshman football players. He was always gratified and humbled when a former student or player related that his lessons – in the classroom and on the field – helped them later in life. Joe welcomed visits with former students and players and learning about their lives and families. Joe adored this area and its people, where he lived his entire life and gave so much of himself.
Joe enjoyed more than 55 years of marriage to Shirley Micheli of Peru, with whom he raised a family and built a happy life. He had many friends. He loved to fish in the summer, watch football in the fall, celebrate during the holidays, and visit local places like Skoog's Pub and Verucchi's all year long. As many of his friends can attest, Joe enjoyed a good story and his smile lit up a room. Joe was a true fan of the Chicago Bears, Bulls, Cubs, and the Fighting Illini of the University of Illinois, and looked forwarded to post-game banter with his son Joseph Jr. He lived a happy, full life and will be missed by many. Joe is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren.
A celebration of life will be held on Tuesday, August 27 at Senica's Oak Ridge Golf Club, 658 US-6, La Salle, IL 61301 from 4 to 8. . In lieu of flowers, donations to LP High School, Attn: Athletic Dept., 541 Chartres Street, LaSalle, Illinois 61301.
On line condolences may be expressed at www.burgessfh.com