Dr. Joseph "Joe" H. Vaughn, Phd

Dr. Joseph “Joe” H. Vaughn, PhD, 80, Winnebago, was welcomed into the arms of Jesus on December 21, 2022, in his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born on Easter Sunday, April 5, 1942, in Thompsonville, IL, the son of Ernie and Meta (Jurgens) Vaughn. He attended Steinmetz High School in Chicago and married his high school sweetheart, Pat Biedar, on February 2, 1964. Joe received his PhD in Psychology at IIT (Illinois Institute of Technology) in 1970. He was a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in Illinois, served as an adjunct professor at the University of Illinois School of Medicine, was a lecturer and conference speaker. Joe was a Bible study leader and an author publishing two books, “New Life for Men” and “A Family Intervention”. He enjoyed reading, acting, playing and being a baseball fan, especially of the Cubs, exploring cultures through extensive travel and mission work. Special thanks to our family and friends who surrounded us with love and grace every day. To our daughters and their families who traveled countless miles and kept us hopeful and laughing. Also, to Loren, Gail, Gary and Brenda who lifted our spirit with every visit and to the staff at Serenity House, especially Chloe D. and Jen W. for their tender loving care in Joe’s last months, days and hours.

Survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Pat; his daughters, Laura Vaughn of Brainerd, MN and Leslie (Trip) Krenik-Thienemann of Tucson, AZ; his grandchildren, Kayla Veatch, Julia (Nyle) Larson, Hannah Krenik, Rolf and Willard Thienemann; many beloved nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his special grandson, Dillon Krenik.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M on Friday, December 30, 2022, at Fitzgerald Funeral Home and Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Rd. Rockford, IL. Burial will be in Middle Creek Cemetery, Winnebago. Visitation will be from 4:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M on Thursday at the funeral home and again from 10:00 A.M. until the time of service on Friday at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, a memorial will be established by the family at a later date. Share online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.