Mr. Joseph J. Derosa

Joseph J. DeRosa

Joseph J. DeRosa, 83, New Lenox, IL passed away on Monday, September 12, 2016 at his home surrounded by his family and friends. He was born on November 10, 1932 in Cosenza, Italy, preceded in death by his parents Eugenio and Angelina (Ricchio) DeRosa, and brother Mario DeRosa. Joe came to the United States at the age of six just before the outbreak of World War II in Europe. He grew up in the Lakeside neighborhood of Racine, WI an area many Italian and Hungarian immigrants resided. He graduated from Washington Park High School in Racine and continued on to the University of Wisconsin Whitewater to pursue his Bachelor's degree, but his education was interrupted during the Korean War.  Joe served in Trieste, Italy and after completing his military service he returned to the University of Wisconsin where he received his Master's degree in clinical social work in 1958. Shortly after his graduation, Joe married his high school classmate, Carole Jensen, on August 16, 1958. Joe had a varied and interesting career as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with the State of Wisconsin and as a Hospital Administrator of a private mental health and addiction hospital. In 1974 Joe accepted a position as the Director of Employee Assistance with the Illinois Central Railroad in Chicago as part of its Human Resources department and moved the family to New Lenox, IL. Joe created and personally directed the Employee Assistance Program for many decades. He was a true pioneer in his field and was recognized by industries throughout the United States as one of the leading experts on dealing with the personal issues of employees. In 1988 he established his own Human Resources Consulting firm, DeRosa, Pierce and Associates, Inc. headquartered in Burr Ridge, IL where he served as its CEO until his retirement in 1999. Joe was an avid bicyclist and liked riding the trails in Illinois and Wisconsin. He also enjoyed wood carving, reading, history, and cars. Most of all, Joe loved his family and wished to be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather and grateful immigrant. Joe is survived by his wife of 58 years Carole; son Eric (Tara) DeRosa of Libertyville, IL; son Adam DeRosa (Michelle Rose) of Gurnee, IL; daughter Amy DeRosa of Frankfort, IL; grandchildren Anna and Samuel. Visitation will be held at Kurtz Memorial Chapel, 102 E.Francis Rd., New Lenox, IL 60451 from 10AM-12PM on Monday, September 19, 2016 with funeral service at 12PM. Interment to Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery to follow. The family would like to extend a special thank you to Joliet Area Community Hospice for the exceptional care they provided to our Dad. In lieu of flowers donations to Jolie-t Area Community Hospice in Joe's name would be appreciated. Info -www.kurtzmemorialchapel.com or 815-485-3200