Joseph P. Slavin, 56, Woodstock

Joseph P. Slavin, 56, Woodstock, died Tuesday, Dec. 15, 2015, at his home.

He was born April 15, 1959, to James and Frances (Andrews) Slavin in Woodstock. 

He was a graduate of Hebron High School and the University of Illinois before his life was greatly affected by a mental illness.

Despite his own struggles, he was an advocate for the National Alliance on Mental Illness and served as a representative of the members council at Thresholds. He was an avid reader and spent much time at the Woodstock Public Library. He enjoyed taking walks, studying ecology and getting together for family gatherings. He will be missed by all who knew him.

Survivors include a brother, Michael (Kathy) Slavin; six nieces and nephews, James, Kim, Jessica, Nicole, Benjamin and Emily; two aunts, June Reuter and Nancy Luebke; an uncle, James (Judy) Andrews; and several great-nieces, great-nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother, James Slavin.

A memorial gathering and Mass were held Dec. 19 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Hartland. Burial was at St. Patrick’s Catholic Cemetery.

Memorials can be made to the Woodstock Public Library.

Arrangements were made by Schneider-Leucht-Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home, Woodstock.