Joseph R. Salemi

Joseph (Joe) Roy Salemi, 81, passed away Monday, February 13, 2023.

Joe was born the middle of three children (Gerlando, Catherine) to Leonard and Josephine Salemi in Chicago, IL on July 27, 1941. He worked in the manufacturing business for 25 years as President and CEO of Inland Broaching and Tool. He had a passion for real estate and worked as a real estate broker for over 30 years. As a young child, Joe’s family moved from Chicago to Ingleside, IL where he enjoyed a childhood on Long Lake. Overcoming health challenges early in his childhood, he completed his HS Diploma at Grant High School in Fox Lake and his Business Degree from Northern Illinois University where he was a proud member of Theta Chi fraternity. He worked as a fashion buyer in the Chicagoland area. Introduced to his former wife, Bethany A. Salemi by his fraternity brother, John Spatuzza. They married and welcomed their first-born son Leonardo J. Salemi in 1968. 3 years later, they welcomed their second son, Anthony J. Salemi. Followed by daughter Jonelle C. Salemi in 1976, and daughter Carlina L. Salemi in 1978. Joe married his current wife Ruth E. Lesner Salemi on October 19, 2003. Joe wore many titles: husband, dad, papa, stepdad, uncle, brother, son, friend, entrepreneur, inventor. He enjoyed water skiing, boating, fishing, traveling and most of all golfing. Joe was a man of deep faith and loved to cook a variety of dishes for family and friends. Everyone had plenty to eat when Joe was cooking in the kitchen. We have a faith-filled confidence that Joe is safely home with Jesus and having a great reunion with family and friends.

He is survived by his wife Ruth E. Lesner Salemi, children, Leo, Tony, Jonelle, Carlina (Attilio) Ferrari, Grandchildren: Talia, Alexa, Luke, and Dylan; his sister Catherine and his dog Misty. Preceded in death by nephew-Leonard, mother-Josephine, his father-Leonard, and brother-Gerlando (Jerry) Salemi.

Visitation services will be at Salerno’s Sons Rosedale Chapels at 450 W. Lake Street, Roselle, IL 60172 (630-889-1700) Viewing will be Friday, February 17, 2023, from 3pm-9pm. Funeral will take place Saturday, February 18, 2023 at 10:30am After which Interment will be at Queen of Heaven Catholic Cemetery & Mausoleums, 1400 S. Wolf Road, Hillside, IL. 60162