Joseph Gusic

Joseph Gusic, father, friend, mentor, and coach of many, passed away on Jan. 31, 2015 at the age of 82. Joe is survived by his son and daughter, Joe and Joan; his “adopted” sons, Kerry and Keith Kotwasinski, Kevin Fox, and John Bodendorfer; and his “adopted” grandkids Kevin and Keagan Fox and Conor, Lorelei and Gabriel Kotwasinski. Born March 15, 1932 in Chicago, IL to Christ and Veronica Gusic, Joe graduated from Lindblom High School in 1950 and from Florida State University in 1960. While gymnastics was his passion, Joe was an active participant in a multitude of other sports, as well as school organizations and fraternities. He was a proud member of the 1951 NCAA National Championship Gymnastic Team. From 1952 to 1960, he served in the Army with the 141st Tank Battalion. Joe taught Physical Education and coached in the Chicago Public Schools for over 20 years. He was an avid hunter, fisherman, and recycling and repurposing expert. A life-long athlete, Joe organized and played in numerous senior sporting events for the past 30 years. Into his 80’s, he played volleyball at national and international senior sporting events, was a member of the Orland Park senior softball team, the 65’s, and played horseshoes among friends. Most importantly, Joe was a loving and generous father, friend, and teammate. He was always eager to lend a helping hand and words of advice. Visitation Friday Feb. 13th, 3 to 9 p.m. at Richard J. Modell Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 5725 S. Pulaski Rd., Chicago. A final viewing will be Saturday 9 to 11 a.m., followed by Interment at St. Mary Cemetery. A reception will follow the interment at St. Peter Lutheran Church, 8550 S. Kedvale, Chicago. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to the National Senior Games Association. Condolences can be sent to joansie.v.g@gmail.com.