Joseph John Bakanec Sr.

Joseph John Bakanec Sr., 94, of Zion, IL died February 28, 2016 at Captain James A. Lovell Health Care Center in North Chicago, IL. Joseph was born January 5, 1922 in Joliet, IL, graduated from Lockport High School in Lockport, IL, and attended Immaculate Conception Church in Waukegan. He was a hairdresser most of his life but also worked as a hardness inspector at American Steel and Wire Company in Waukegan. Joseph served his country with the United States Army from 1943 to 1945. While he was enlisted, he was in Normandy, Italy, France, and Africa and was awarded many medals. He enjoyed taking walks and swimming at the beach. Joseph is survived by his children, Patricia Horman of Wadsworth, IL, Joseph John (Patricia) Bakanec Jr. of Winthrop Harbor, IL, and John Bakanec of Waupaca, WI; 7 grandchildren, Kristal Bakanec, Timothy Taylor, Chase and Shane Horman, Gabrielle, Bianca and Niko Bakanec; 2 great-grandchildren, Dominik Bakanec-Sta.Ana and Owen Horman; and many other relatives. He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Anna Bakanec; grandson, Ryan Bakanec; and siblings, Eddie, Frank Jr., Raymond, Benny, Mary and Bernard. The family would like to thank the staff at the VA Hospital for all the respect and care received from the doctors, nurses and volunteers. Services will be private for the family.