It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Joseph Connelly. He peacefully left us on February 14, 2025 at the age of 62 at his home in Wayne, IL surrounded by his wife and children.
Joe was born on September 16, 1962 in Chicago, Illinois by his father William Connelly and mother Patricia Connelly.
In 1979, Joe joined his father out of the basement of his childhood home to start an electrical business called Connelly Electric. Alongside his three brothers, Joe played an instrumental role in growing the company into one of the most respected and well-known names in the industry. Joe’s natural talent for building lasting relationships was key to the company’s success and helped lay the foundation for its continued growth and reputation.
In 1984, Joe met the love of his life and beloved wife, Marilyn. They celebrated 38 years of marriage. Together they created a beautiful family of 4 children. His children loved, respected, and admired the person he was. To those who knew him, it was obvious that his family and becoming a grandfather was his greatest joy and accomplishment. To Joe, family was everything.
Joe was truly one of a kind. He was always authentically himself—quick-witted, charismatic, and funny—staying true to his beliefs no matter what. His positive energy was infectious, and people were naturally drawn towards him. Joe loved staying active whether it was playing golf, walking the beach of Marco Island, swimming or riding his bike. Joe’s kindness and generosity left a lasting impact on anyone who had the privilege of knowing him. Whether through a simple joke, thoughtful gesture or heartfelt conversation he made all those around him feel valued.
As the saying goes, the flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long. Although Joe’s life was taken too soon, he lived his life to the fullest each and every day. His presence will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in the countless memories he created with family, friends, and colleagues.
He is survived by his wife Marilyn Connelly and his four beloved children, Taylor (Casey) Quedenfeld, Brooke (Luke) Kriegel, Morgan (Zach) Buckel and son Joseph Connelly, Jr. Eight grandchildren; Owen, Cole, Cali and Rey Quedenfeld; Noah and Mason Kriegel; Drew and Cooper Buckel. Five brothers and sisters; William (Maria) Connelly, Mary (Daniel) Boryca, Patricia (Chris) Parks, Kevin (Stacey) Connelly, and Brian (Lori) Connelly.
His life will be celebrated on Wednesday, February 19th, 2025 from 2:00PM-9:00PM at Bucaro Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 485 W. Army Trail Rd. Bloomingdale, IL. Family and Friends are asked to meet on Thursday February 20th, 2025 at St. John Neumann Church 2900 E. Main St. St Charles, IL for a 10:30 AM Mass. Burial to follow the funeral service at Assumption Catholic Cemetery in Wheaton, IL.