Joseph (Joe) Anthony Oliva, Sr. passed away peacefully on September 4, 2026, at the age of 88.  A husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Joe prided himself on a strong work ethic and dedication to supporting his family. 

Born in Chicago, Illinois on October 29, 1937, Joe was raised in a multi-generational Italian household filled with big personalities and a strong Catholic faith.  Growing up this way, Joe learned from an early age the importance of family, a value he carried with him through life and passed down to his family.

Joe celebrated many successes throughout his impressive career.  His proudest accomplishment was his marriage with the love of his life, Virginia (Ginny) Oliva.  Ginny and Joe spent 51 happy years together filled with laughter, love, five children and fifteen grandchildren.  Always the life of the party, Joe (or Poppy as he was known to his grandchildren) found joy through togetherness.  Joe and Ginny could be found on the golf course surrounded by friends.  Many will remember the magical Christmas parties at Ruth Lake Country Club, extravagant birthday celebrations, and sun-soaked beach days in Bonita Springs.  At every event, Joe could be found surrounded by friends and family enjoying a premium cigar and an opinion to share.

Joe is survived by his children; Mary Cordell, Margaret Huetson, Joseph Oliva, Jr. (Sue Oliva), Tony Oliva (Christine Oliva), and Elizabeth Furlong (William Furlong), his niece Sharon Capasso, his nephew Ron Malenke, his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and his loving partner, Phyllis Sheehan.  He was preceded in death by his wife Virginia Oliva, sister Carol Malenke, granddaughter Bridget Furlong, and son-in-law Jim Huetson.

The visitation will be held on Friday, September 11, 2026, from 10 AM until the time of funeral mass at 11 AM at Notre Dame Parish 64 Norfolk Ave.  Clarendon Hills, IL.    Interment will be held at Queen of Heaven Cemetery, Hillside, IL. In lieu of flowers, memorials appreciated to NAMI Louisville

While it may be time to say good-bye, Joe’s legacy will continue in the lives of all who loved him. 

Ciao Poppy.