Joseph Canzolino

Joseph “Joe” Canzolino passed away on Sunday, May 3, 2020. He was 78 years old. He would tell you that the “Golden Years” were total bull#$%&. A lifelong Chicagoan, he was the oldest of 5 siblings of whom he is survived by Victor (Kathy). He graduated from Fenwick High School in Oak Park and later went on to graduate from University of Illinois College of Pharmacy. For 34 years he was married to his soulmate, Lilia (nee Aguayo). Together they built a beautiful life. They raised 4 children; Anthony (Jamison), Michelle (Josie), Michael, and Jimmy (Jessica). They have 4 grandchildren: Courtney, Brandon, Emilia, and the eagerly anticipated Camden. If Joe were given the option to do anything he wanted in the whole world, he would choose to spend his days with his family. He loved Christmas Eve celebrations, big family barbecues, Chicago Cubs games, and Sunday dinners. Joe spent 20 years as Deputy Chief Consultant of the US Department of Veteran’s Affairs Pharmacy Benefits Management Services. He had deep respect for the sacrifices of our military service members and their families. Joe never let anyone forget the reason they came to work every day, often starting meetings by saying “let’s remember why we’re here”. He was known as a fierce negotiator and put that skill to work regularly securing contracts for the VA. During his tenure, he negotiated $27.7 billion dollars in savings on these contracts and fought hard to get our veterans the care they needed. Upon his retirement, he was awarded the Department of Veterans Affairs Distinguished Career Award from the Secretary of Veterans Affairs. It was the pinnacle of his career. Prior to this he served as the Chief Pharmacist for the City of Chicago. When Joe left this earth, he was surrounded by his family. He was immediately welcomed home by loved ones who left before him. His parents Vito & Mary Canzolino, sister and brother-in-law Camille & Tom Gondeck, sister Annette Martel, brother Jimmy Canzolino, mother and father-in-law Hilma & Alfred Aguayo Sr. and countless aunts, uncles and cousins. It is certainly the family party that Joe would have loved here on earth. Due to current restrictions, a private family service will take place on Saturday May 9, 2020 at Cumberland Chapels. The family is planning a Celebration of Life when restrictions are lifted. In lieu of flowers, memorial contribution can be made in his honor to the Gary Sinise Foundation R.I.S.E program. Donate https://www.garysinisefoundation.org/donate/For Information call 708-456-8300 or www.cumberlandchapels.com