Bernard Joseph Joda, 89, of Huntley, passed away on Monday, March 3, 2025.
He was born on June 28, 1935 in Chicago, Illinois to Bernard H. and Clara (Bogg) Joda. He married Mary Ann Panock in Cicero, Illinois in 1956. The couple bought their first home in Addison, Illinois where their four children grew up. They called Huntley home for the last 26 years after moving from Bloomingdale, Illinois.
Bernard served his country as a member of the National Guard for many years. He worked as a Systems Analyst for Automatic Electric (later GTE and Verizon) before retiring early to spend time with loved ones.
A devout Catholic, Bernard served as an altar boy and later as an usher during Mass. He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church up until his passing. He coached basketball, soccer, and baseball for his children’s teams, and was a Cub Scout in his younger years. He held an extensive knowledge of geography and enjoyed camping and traveling all over the US and internationally. One of his favorite spots was Las Vegas, where he showed off his poker skills. In his spare time, he could be found fishing, golfing, swimming, and visiting with his many friends. Above all, he will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather to his family.
Bernard is survived by his wife of nearly 69 years, Mary Ann Joda; his children, Donna (Larry) DeLeo, Diane (John) Zozokos, Brian (Lisa) Joda, and Brad (Karen) Joda; as well as eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, March 15, 2025 from 11am to 2pm, with a prayer service at 1:30pm at DeFiore Funeral Home - 10763 Dundee Rd. Huntley, Illinois 60142. Memorial donations are suggested to St. Jude’s Research Hospital or St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Huntley.
For further information please contact the funeral home at 847-515-8772 or online condolences may be directed to www.defiorefuneral.com.
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Mr. Joda, what an amazing example of how to be a husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. He will truly be missed. Hugs and prayers for all of the Joda Family.
May perpetual light shine upon Bernie. My thoughts are with Mary Ann and the entire Joda family. Surely Uncle Eddie greeted him home.
Very sorry for the loss of your father, Donna. You and your family will be in our prayers.
Bernie was my first cousin and a wonderful human being. I remember many fun get together at their home in Addison when I was a kid. Bernie was always full of life and I will never forget those memories of him. I wish your family prayers and happy remembrance of a great person and family. Love , Cecile Saia
We at Sun City always enjoyed Burney at our many conversations in the fitness center. What a wonderful person. Our prayers are with your family.
Mary Ann & the Joda Family we are saddened by the passing your great love. Forever in our thoughts and prayers. Love and Blessings, Jan & Charlie