Joseph Anthony Schiavone, 92, passed away peacefully at home on May 12, 2026. 

Joe was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and cherished great-grandfather whose warmth, strength, and steady presence meant so much to all who knew him.

He was born on January 24, 1934, in the back of his family’s barber shop on Van Buren Street in Chicago—a beginning that reflected the close-knit family roots that shaped his life. Joe is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara (nee Schmugge), with whom he shared 71 wonderful years of marriage, and by their five children: Frances Schiavone, George (Esther) Schiavone, Cathy (Steven) Kougias, Anthony (Beverly) Schiavone, and Stacy Schiavone. He is also survived by 10 grandchildren: Natalie (Mark) Blacklidge, Steven Kougias, Joseph M. (Abby) Schiavone, Sam Kougias, Michael (Andrea) Schiavone, Daniel Schiavone, Scott Schiavone, Emily Schiavone, Ronald Schiavone, and Joseph Schiavone. Joe was further blessed with five great-grandchildren: Luisa Schiavone, Georgette Schiavone, Sullivan Blacklidge, Colette Schiavone, and Elsie Schiavone.

Joe was the fifth of six children born to Anthony and Frances Schiavone. He was preceded in life by his siblings James (Armida), Angelina (Ambrose) Panico, Carmen, and Frank (Dolly), and is survived by his sister, Darlene Schiavone. Joe proudly followed in the family tradition and worked as a barber at Tony’s Barber Shop. In his 40s, he continued to build his future by studying to become a real estate broker, and in 1975 he closed 42 deals, earning Salesman of the Year honors for Mid-America Realty. Joe was an avid sports fan, but golf was by far his favorite game. Billy Caldwell was his home course and one of his favorite places to spend time. He also loved the horses—daily doubles were exciting, but superfectas were his favorite. Later in life, Joe became a familiar and friendly presence at Rivers Casino, where he enjoyed playing Texas Hold’em and was known by many.

In addition to his success in real estate sales, Joe rehabbed and sold many properties. He also took great pride in owning and managing his 12-unit building on Montrose Avenue, which he cared for since 1980. Even with all he accomplished, Joe always made his wife and family his highest priority. He faithfully showed up for the moments that mattered most—his grandchildren’s Irish dance competitions, hockey, football, and baseball games—and he never missed the family golf outings he loved so much. One of Joe’s favorite sayings was, “It’s not easy being Joe Schiavone.” Those who loved him will remember his humor, his work ethic, his devotion to family, and the unmistakable way he made his presence known wherever he went. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered always.

Memorial gathering, Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at St. Monica Church, 5136 N. Nottingham Ave., Chicago, IL from 10:00 a.m. until the time of Mass at 11:00 a.m. 

Arrangements entrusted to Kolbus-May Funeral Home 773-774-3232 or www.kolbusmayfh.com