Joseph Anthony Mann

Joseph Anthony Mann, age 95 years of Lake Geneva, WI, passed away to eternal life on February 3rd, 2026.

Joseph was born on January 26th, 1931 in the Back of the Yards neighborhood on the Southwest side of Chicago, to the late Joseph E. and Bernice M. (nee Blinstrup) Mann. Growing up, he and his sister Elaine often ran into their father and uncle’s neighborhood pharmacy for penny candy after school. He later attended St. Rita High School, and lived out Christian values throughout his life. He married the late Audrey Arlene (nee Altman) Mann on November 11th, 1953 in Chicago, IL. She preceded him in death on October 28th, 2023.

A loyal Chicago White Sox fan, Joe also played baseball, and was asked to try out for the Boston Red Sox just prior to being drafted by the Marines. Joe served in the Marine Corps from 1951-1953, and remained a proud Marine his entire life. Always a hard worker, he unloaded boxcars and worked as a mechanic at International Harvester Research Lab in Chicago, before ending his long career as a Local 134 Union Electrician, influenced by his father-in-law.

Joe met the love of his life, Audrey, at a dance in the Trianon Ballroom in Chicago. Soon after, in 1963, they moved to Oak Lawn with their children Greg and Gayle. Joe enjoyed playing cards, bowling, ping pong, pool and golf. He was happy to play a few of the country’s most iconic golf courses including Pebble Beach, Torrey Pines, Pinehurst, Harbour Town and Cog Hill. His consuming passion was his dedication to his family, always putting them before himself with fervor and love.

In retirement, Joe and Audrey moved to Delavan, WI, where Joe continued to enjoy friends and family. He delighted in his role as Papa and Great Papa to his many grandchildren and great grandchildren. He continued to excel at pool, clearing the table regularly. He also enjoyed teaching the basics to friends who were new at the game.

Above all, he will be remembered for the quiet, steady way he loved selflessly, completely and without expectation of anything in return. Though we will deeply miss his warm smile, his patient guidance, and the comfort of his presence, his legacy lives on in the family he cherished. In honoring him, we carry forward the love he so generously gave, grateful for 95 beautiful years with a truly humble and remarkable man.

Joseph is survived by his children, Greg J. (Patricia) Mann, and Gayle J. (Bernard) Harrigan; his grandchildren Kristina, Lauren, Jacqueline, Jonathan, Sean, Sarah, and Kolin; and his great-grandchildren, Gabriella, Brooklyn, Allison, Kate, Maeve, and Liliana.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Audrey; his parents; and his sister, Elaine Malloy.

After 70 years of marriage, Audrey passed away in 2023. Most recently, Joe lived at Village Glen Memory Care of Geneva Lake, where he received tender and compassionate care. The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the staff of Village Glen and Aurora Hospice.

A mass will be held on Tuesday, March 3rd 2026, at St Linus Catholic Church, 10300 Lawler Ave, Oak Lawn, IL 60453, beginning at 11:00 AM. Burial will follow at Resurrection Cemetery, 7201 Archer Rd, Justice, IL 60458.

In lieu of flowers and donations, memorials shall be to Lakeland Animal Shelter in Delavan, WI.