Joseph A. Gorz, beloved husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 15, 2026, surrounded by the loving family he spent a lifetime building. He was 86.
Born February 17, 1940, Joe loved God, music, the outdoors, scouting, family camping trips, and spending time with the people he cared about most. In his later years, he was deeply religious and enjoyed Sudoku and word searches.
Joe proudly served his country as a military policeman at Fort Meade before beginning a distinguished 32-year career with the Chicago Police Department, eventually rising to the rank of sergeant. He believed in hard work, helping others, and always showing up when it mattered.
Joe shared 59 wonderful years of marriage with the love of his life and best friend, Pat. Together, they built a close-knit and loving family centered around laughter, loyalty, and unconditional support. Joe was a man who loved deeply and gave freely of his time, wisdom, humor, and encouragement. Whether serving as scoutmaster, coach, mentor, or simply a steady presence for his family and friends, he always made people feel supported and loved.
He will be remembered for his strength, generosity, sense of humor, unwavering dedication to family, and memorable one-liners — including his signature response at the dinner table: “Compliments to the chef!”
He was preceded in death by his parents, Angeline and Joseph Gorz; his sister Joanne; and his brother Tippy.
Joe is survived by his beloved wife, Pat; his children, Patrick (Lupe), Judy Robledo (Leo), Jeanette Antico (Joe), Andy (Kelly), and Ed (Jen); and his grandchildren, Joey, Jack, Raymond, Alex, Virginia, Zoey, Celia, Zach, and Anna, as well as many beloved nieces and nephews.
Memorial Visitation: Tuesday, May 26, 2026, 4 to 8 p.m. at Foran Funeral Home, 7300 W. Archer Ave. (55th Street just west of Harlem).
Visitation continues: Wednesday, 8:30 a.m. until Prayers at 9:30 a.m.
Mass: 10 a.m. at St. Daniel the Prophet Church.
Inurnment: Resurrection Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Joe’s memory to the Alzheimer’s Association.