Joseph Kania

Joseph Kania, age 87, of Clinton, IA passed away Wednesday, September 25, 2019 at Alverno Health Care Facility in Clinton. A funeral mass will be held at 10:30am, Friday, October 4, 2019 at St. John’s Catholic Church in Savanna, IL. Burial will take place at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, October 5, 2019 at St. Adalbert Catholic Cemetery in Niles, IL.

Joseph was born October 22, 1931 in Chicago, IL, the son of Stanley and Francis (Augustyn) Kania. He attended Chicago schools, graduating from Harrison High School. After graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army and was soon deployed to Korea. Joseph was incredibly proud to have served in combat, for his country. Following his honorable discharge from the Army, Joseph went to work for Florsheim Shoes in Chicago, IL, where he worked for over 30 years.

Joseph was an avid Chicago sports fan. He loved his Bears, Bulls, and White Sox. One could often find him situated in front of the TV, come game time. But his interest in sport and competition wasn’t limited to just fandom. He loved to bowl, and became quite good at it. He and his brother often participated in bowling leagues and tournaments; even going so far as to compete in a tournament in Florida. Another enjoyable leisure activity of his, was visiting his sister in Las Vegas, where shows, dining, and a slot machine or two, kept them entertained.

Joseph will be dearly missed by his sister, Sophie Saparito of Clinton, IA; niece Arlene Skonieczny, of Thomson, IL; nephew James (Carol) Malysiak of the Galena Territory, IL; and beloved members of his extended family, David (Susan) Schwaller of Plymouth, MN, Sun Yung Shin of Minneapolis, MN, Michael (Toni) Skonieczny of Niles, IL, Susan (Michael) Legrady of Barrington, IL, Karen (Tom) Simon of Ingleside, IL, and 11 great-great nieces and nephews, as well as many dear friends, including his friends at Alverno Health Care Facility.

Joseph is preceded in death by his parents and his siblings, Eleanor, Josephine, Chester, and Henry.