Joe Vega

Joe Vega, 89, of Galesburg, died peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family, Sunday, January 6, 2019. Joe was born June 3, 1929 in Ormonde, IL the son of Jose and Maria (Aguilar) Vega. Joe married Mary A. Leon on July 9, 1955 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Galesburg. Joe is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Mary of Galesburg; one daughter, Julie (Mark) Fields of Galesburg; his four grandsons who were his pride and joy, David, Andrew “A.J.”, Chris, and Nick, along with one great grandson, Paxton. Joe is also survived by one brother, Julio Vega of Moline; and one sister, Helen Barragan of Galesburg. Joe was preceded in death by a son, David, and a daughter, Joanne Vega; three brothers, Paul, Joe’s twin brother, Jess, and Andy; and two sisters, Juana and Ambrocia. Joe served in the US Army. He was a dedicated machine operator at Jefferson-Smurfit for 39 years, retiring in 1994. Joe was a devoted and active member at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, serving as an eucharistic minister and usher for many years. He was also a member of Monmouth Knights of Columbus Council 1496. Joe loved sports. He was an avid golfer at Bunker Links Golf Course for many years, was a faithful follower of the PGA Tour, and coached little league. However, Joe’s favorite sport was watching and following his grandson’s through their youth sports, into GHS sports, Galesburg American Legion Baseball, and onto their college baseball careers. To say Joe was proud of his grandsons would be an understatement! Visitation will be 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, January 10, 2019 at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory with the rosary being prayed at 7 p.m. Joe’s funeral mass will be 11 a.m. Friday, January 11, 2019 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Galesburg. Rev. William T. Miller will officiate. Burial with military rites will follow at St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Galesburg. Memorials may be made in Joe’s memory to St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, 858 S. Academy St., Galesburg, IL 61401.