Joseph A. Rymkey went to be with his Lord and Savior on October 3rd, after a 5 year battle with cancer.  Joe was born on October 22, 1954, son of the late Catherine (nee Lenda) and Walter Rymkey in Chicago, IL.

Joe's boyhood dream of becoming a firefighter was realized when he began volunteering at Northwest Homer Fire Department. Five years later, Joe began working for the Lemont Fire Protection District as a firefighter/EMT and later, as fire inspector.  Joe dedicated almost 30 years of his life to fire service.  He was also a charter member of Lemont Firefighter's Local 3966 and a member of the Iron Workers Local Union #1.  He was an avid gardener, to his family's great joy and anticipation and a skilled handyman around the house.  He enjoyed watching football, especially "da Bears" and afternoon naps.  Most of all he loved family gatherings for holidays and family picnics on their sprawling 3 acre backyard.

Joe is survived by his beloved wife of 45 years, Jill (nee Karalevicz) Rymkey; loving daughters, Melissa (Christian Calin) Rymkey, Laura (Brian) Murray and Sara (Matt) Donisch; cherished grandchildren, Hunter and Liam Murray; brother-in-law, Jack (Vinet) Karalevicz; niece, Krista (Evan) Gregg; nephew, Josh (Haley) Karalevicz; many friends and colleagues.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Samaritan's Purse ( DONATE )

Memorial Gathering
Tuesday, October 15, 2024 from 4:00pm to 7:00pm
O'NEIL FUNERAL HOME
1105 E. 9th St., Lockport, IL.
Fire Department walk through at 6pm
Closing Memorial 6:30-7:00pm