Joe M. “Coach” Byrne, 56, of Mapleton, IL passed away Wednesday March 3, 2010 at his residence. Joe was born December 21, 1953 in Chicago, IL to Joseph E. and Martha Kajtaniak Byrne. Joe grew up in Lockport , IL where he attended junior high and high school.
Surviving is his daughter Shannon (Matthew) Foiles of Bartonville, IL, his daughter Angela (Jeffrey) Chiaravalle of Bartonville, IL, his daughter Erin (Kenny) Pickens of Hanna City, IL, seven grandchildren, his sister Debbie (Marty) Hrpcha of Kankakee, IL, his sister Patricia (Anthony) Weese of Sutton, AK, two nephews, one niece, and one great niece. Joe was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Sharon Byrne.
Joe taught Physical Education, Driver’s Education, and coached football and wrestling at Limestone High School for 31 years. Joe obtained his Bachelor’s Degree from Western Illinois University in 1976 where he still holds the school’s record for most assisted tackles in a single football season. Joe later received his Master’s Degree from St. Xavier University. Joe was the president of the East End Hunting Club, a member of the Limestone Federation of Teachers, Peoria Coaches Association, American Legion Post 979, and a past member of the Laborers’ International Union Local 165 while working for I.D.O.T. from 1979 to 2001 during the summer. Joe loved the outdoors, so much, he spent his spare time hunting and fishing with his dogs.
Services will be held at 6 PM Saturday March 6, 2010 at Davison-Fulton Bartonville Chapel. Visitation will be from 2 – 6 PM Saturday at the funeral home. Cremation rites will be accorded. In lieu of flowers Memorials may be made to the Joe M. Byrne Scholarship Fund. View Joe’s life story at www.Davison-Fulton-BartonvilleChapel.com
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