Alfonz Josic

He grew up hungry and shoeless in a town occupied by Nazis. His last phase of life was even less fun and is now mercifully ended. Everything in between was a triumph.

Alfonz was born on August 8, 1934 in Bosnia to Stipo and Manda Josic. As a young man, he worked in the biggest shipyard in Croatia and gained a reputation as a hard worker. He met the love of his life, Danica, at a dance in her village. She was impressed with his dreams and ambition, and he soon showed how determined he was. When he realized that his homeland was not a place that rewarded hard work, he left Yugoslavia and crossed Italy and the Alps on foot to find work in France. After a few years in Paris and some time working in Germany, he turned his eye to even greater opportunity in America. With the help of a friend, he won a green card and made his way across the ocean. He landed in Chicago and wrote letters to Danica while learning English and making a life for himself in the strange land. Soon he made his way back to Paris to marry Danica, and she joined him in America once her visa was approved. They filled their lives with family, friends and much joy.

Alfonz worked tirelessly but always had time and energy to spend with his children when he returned home from work. He gave generously to family, friends, and neighbors. He always kept a promise regardless of what it cost him in time, sweat or money. He loved sports and especially skiing. He started out as a young boy on the mountains of Bosnia, climbing uphill on foot and racing down on used skis with bindings he made himself. He skied until his late 70s on slopes around the world and joyfully taught his daughters, son-in-law and friends how to ski. He loved the outdoors, was an avid fisherman, a former semi-pro soccer player, and a fascinating storyteller. His generous hospitality made for great parties. He could grill almost anything and made sure no one left his home hungry.

Alfonz lived joyfully and fully. His hard work, kindness, and character made him the best husband, father and friend anyone could wish for.

Alfonz is preceded in death by his parents Stipo and Manda; his siblings Mato (Ankica) Josic, Andelko (the late Patricia) Josic, Zeljko (the late Ljuba) Josic, Veronika (the late Milan) Stakic, Ika (Raymond) Edison, and Miroslava (the late Radoja) Topic.

Alfonz will be greatly missed by his wife Danica, his daughters Mirjana (Timothy) O’Hara, Sonja Josic, and his brother Ivan Josic.

A memorial visitation for Alfonz will be held on Monday, December 9, 2024 from 3-7PM at Drake and Son Funeral Home, at 5303 N. Western Ave., Chicago, IL, 60625. A memorial service will take place at 4:30PM that evening.