Joseph T. Bishop
Joseph "Joe" Bishop was born on September 17, 1944, in Chicago, Illinois, fittingly on Constitution Day. He died on September 15, 2026. He was the devoted son of the late Anna and Thomas Bishop.
After graduating from the University of Dayton, Joe was drafted into the United States Army and served a tour in Vietnam, attaining the rank of Major. He continued his military service with pride in the Army Reserve for an additional 20 years.
Joe spent most of his professional career serving the people of Chicago through his work with the City of Chicago and the Cook County Forest Preserves. He was also a loyal member and supporter of the 13th Ward Democratic Organization.
Whether you knew him for a lifetime or only crossed paths with him briefly, chances are Joe left you with a story, a helping hand, or a piece of advice. An extraordinary storyteller, he seemed to have an interesting fact, a piece of history, or a memory to share on nearly every subject. Conversations with Joe rarely ended where they began, and many will fondly remember him closing his stories with his signature phrase: “Ain't that a fact, Jack?" Joe seldom sat still for long. He loved tinkering with projects and was a familiar face at the local hardware store, often gathering ideas for whatever he was planning next. He also brought joy to others through his passion for holiday decorating. No matter the season, Joe delighted in transforming his front yard into something festive and welcoming.
Above all, Joe cherished his three cats, Sophia, Tom, and Jerry, whose companionship brought him great happiness. Joe is survived by his beloved partner, Carol Kaminski; his nephews, Martin and Robert Rose; his niece, Catherine Rose; and many dear family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his sisters, Mary and Angela Rose, and his nephew, August Rose.
Visitation will be held Monday, September 21, at Thompson & Kuenster Funeral Home, 5570 W. 95th Street, Oak Lawn, Illinois, from 9:00 a.m. until the time of prayers at 10:30 a.m. A Funeral Mass will follow at 11:30 a.m. at Most Holy Redeemer Church, 9525 S. Lawndale Avenue, Evergreen Park, Illinois. Interment will take place at St. Mary's Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Joe's honor to the Disabled American Veterans are appreciated: Disabled American Veterans.