Joe R. Maavich

Joe R. Maavich, 65, of Rockford, IL, passed away on September 21, 2021. He was born on December 2, 1955 in Rockford, IL to William and Iola (Mitchell) Maavich. Joe graduated from Auburn High School in 1973 and went on to graduate from the Milwaukee School of Engineering. He worked for 30 years at Sunstrand. Joe was a volunteer Fire Fighter on the Standard Fire Department and also owned stock in Capital Brewery. Joe married Genevieve “Geva” on May 18, 2001 and she was the center of his whole world. He loved antiques, especially antique cars and old time radio. Joe had a huge heart and was a very loyal friend. He never hesitated to go out of his way to help anyone that needed it. Family was everything to him and he was so proud of each of them. Joe will be missed by all that knew and loved him.
Joe is survived by his wife of 20 years, Genevieve; his step daughters, Stacey Bonetti, Michelle Thompson and Kathleen (Curt) Gilland; his step grandchildren, Jessica Parham, Emily and Elijah Gilland; his brothers, Jack Mitchell, Jim (Sandy) Maavich, Tom Maavich and Mike (Susan) Maavich; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, William Maavich, Sam Maavich and Wayne Maavich.
There will be a private burial for Joe at Greenwood Cemetery. In lieu of flower, memorials can be made to GiGi’s Playhouse, https://gigisplayhouse.org/rockford. Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory assisted the family. 1860 S. Mulford Rd., Rockford, IL 61108. Share online memories and condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com