Rudolph E. Pahl Jr., 97

It is with heavy hearts we announce the death of our delightful father, Rudolph Eric Pahl, Jr. At 97 years old, he was living a full, independent life until a tragic fall in his home. He transitioned peacefully on May 4, 2025, at JourneyCare Hospice in Barrington surrounded by family and friends.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, at least those who could appreciate his wit, sense of humor, honesty, and love of people.

Rudy lived his life with ease. He had a flair for decorating, was constantly working around the house, and never missed an opportunity to go dancing. He loved his home and his family. He also loved a challenge! He could do ANYTHING! He would design it, build it, repair it, and never hire anyone to do it for him. When he was not working around the house, his time and attention was spent with his children and grandchildren. His presence was his gift to his wife and family. He was a remarkable man, at the age of 80, lovingly stepping into the role of his wife’s caregiver. He exemplified true happiness as not having what you want, but wanting what you have.

Rudy was born in Oak Park, Ill., on March 23, 1928, and grew up in Berwyn. He attended the Illinois Institute of Technology and became a mechanical engineer, securing a job at Joslyn Manufacturing in Chicago. He was then drafted into the Korean War, where he served four years. Upon returning, he continued his work at Joslyn and soon met his beautiful wife to be, Joy Vesely, at a bohemian polka dance. They were married 59 years and had three children. In 1972 they moved from Westchester, Ill., to Woodstock, where Rudy was operating the newly established Joslyn Research Plant. He was a brilliant man and when asked, “What do you do?” he would reply, “I make lightning!” He often said his favorite day of the week was Monday.

In his later years after the passing of his wife, Rudy’s enjoyment came from getting to know people from all walks of life. He left an impression on many lives with his honest wisdom and grounded nature. He truly never got old or set in his ways. He was open minded and always evolving with the times. He got his first tattoo at the age of 88!

Rudy is survived by his three children; Katherine Potts (Jim), Steven Pahl Sr. (Kim), and Krista Pahl-Baloun; seven grandchildren, Steven Pahl, Jr. (Carol), Daniel Pahl (Jeryl) Kaitlyn Pahl, Michael Potts (Jessica), Jack Baloun, and William Baloun; and eight great- grandchildren, Jaidyn and Lily Schnieder, Elliott Potts, Sofia and Gabriela Potts, Miles Pahl, and Sage and Ezra Jones. He was preceded in death by his wife, Joy; his sister; Marion; and a granddaughter, Josephine Baloun.

A special thank you to Schneider, Leucht, Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home for their compassion and care.

A celebration of a life well lived will be held June 21, 2025, at Winestock on the Woodstock Square, 136 Cass St., Woodstock, beginning at 3 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to:

On Angel’s Wings, 6500 Northwest Hwy Unit 2D, Crystal Lake, IL 60014; or, JourneyCare Hospice 405 N. Lake Zurich Road, Barrington, IL 60010