Joseph L. Jankowski

Joseph L. Jankowski, 97, of Indianapolis, IN, formerly of Ottawa, IL, passed away Saturday, January 8, 2022, at his daughter's home surrounded by loving family. 

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, January 17, 2022, at St. Columba Church, Ottawa, IL.with Rev. Gregory Jarzombek OSB officiating.  Visitation will be on Sunday, January 16, 2022, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Ottawa Funeral Home. Burial will be in St. Columba Cemetery with Military Services.

Born in Ottawa to Joseph and Mary (Sledjieski) Jankowski, he attended St. Patrick Grade School and was a 1942 graduate of St. Bede Academy.  He was a proud veteran and Purple Heart recipient, serving in the Army’s 84th Division, 334th Infantry Railsplitters during World War II.  After the war ended, Joe was a member of the 84th Division Army Football team.

Joe worked at Peltier Glass Company for 50 years serving in many capacities including President of the company.  He was a member of the Knights of Columbus, American Legion, and the St. Columba Parish council.  

Joe was married to his beloved wife, Anne Butler, for 51 years.  He was a devoted husband and father who loved to garden and fish in his spare time.

He is survived by his eight children, Paula Phelan, Norene (Tim) Tierney, JoAnne Bogdon, Marihelen (William) Bassett, Jane Jankowski, Bill (Amy) Jankowski, Tom (SueAnn) Jankowski, and Mike Jankowski.  He has 22 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren. 

Joseph was preceded in death by his parents, wife, Anne, brother, Ted Jankowski, and sisters Wanda Baron and Sister Mary Casimir Jankowski, OP.

Pallbearers will be Bill Phelan, Matt Bassett, Tim Tierney, Mike Bassett, Dan Jankowski, Joe Jankowski, Michael Bogdon, Jacob Jankowski, and Zachary Verbarg.

Memorials may be directed to St. Bede Academy, Peru, IL, or Friendship House. 

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