Joseph Martin Crawford of Dunedin, FL (formerly of Chicago and River Forest, IL) died peacefully after enjoying a day waterside with family, on March 7, 2024, at the age of 87. He is now reunited with his wife of 55 years Lynn Crawford nee Siergiej.

Joe is survived by his children, Colleen Steinbeiser, Kevin (Kelli), Jody Lynn (Tim), Terry Thiese (Paul), Kelly (John), Jacky Hackett (Jeff); his grandchildren, Andrew (Ana), Carolyn, Carrie, Erica, Christian Jr., Cathleen, Jack, Stephen, Kathryn, Ryan, Bridget, Kelly, Meaghan, Kevin, Finnegan, Mick (Kaeley), Sean (Nicole), Marissa (Janile); his great-grandchildren, Olivia, Emily, Julia, Joseph, and Thomas; his sisters-in-law Patsy (the late Ted) Vreeland and Janis (Bill) Dooley. He is preceded in death by his siblings Mary (Edward), John (Mary), Jeanne (Robin), Lucille (Donald), and Geraldine (Herman).

Joe proudly served his country in the United States Air Force. He loved sharing stories from his time stationed in Okinawa and Casablanca, as well as his travels throughout North Africa and Europe. After a 25-year career at Arthur Andersen & Co. he went on to become a Revenue Agent at the IRS for nearly 15 years.

He was an avid runner, cyclist and swimmer who had a passion for reading and was a life-long learner. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from University of Arizona, a Master of Science in Accountancy, and a Master of Taxation from DePaul University. He also became a licensed Certified Public Accountant. He shared his knowledge teaching at AA & Co., DePaul University, Roosevelt University and Malcom X College. He continued his education at the Newberry Library studying Shakespeare, theatre and music. He often shared his talents playing guitar, banjo and autoharp entertaining family and friends.

A visitation is scheduled for Monday March 18th at 10 am until time of mass 11 am at St. Luke Church, 7600 Lake St.,  River Forest, IL. Interment Mount Carmel Cemetery Hillside, IL. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a memorial contribution be made to your local library or veterans organization. Arrangements by Ahern Funeral Services 708-366-5762