The Oak Lawn Village Board paid tribute to Mayor Dave Heilmann's father, Joseph, who passed away suddenly on Oct. 20 after a brief illness.

Joseph C. Heilmann, who was 79 at the time of his death, was a longtime resident of Oak Lawn. He was a veteran of the Korean War Coast Guard and a devoted father of six children, according to a death notice published in The Chicago Tribune and posted on the Blake-Lamb Funeral Home website.

In a brief conversation with Oak Lawn Patch on Tuesday morning, Mayor Heilmann described his relationship with his father as being "very close."

Heilmann was not present at Tuesday evening's regular board meeting. Trustee Carol Quinlan thanked attendees on behalf of the mayor.

"Mayor Heilmann asked that I share with everyone his deep appreciation for all the kind words of encouragement and support," Quinlan said. "He also said that with this very difficult loss plus with the upcoming birth of his child, he will need to be with his family during this time. He would like thank you for your understanding."

Heilmann and his wife, Erica, are expecting their fourth child next month.

Quinlan recalled Joseph Heilmann as being "a storyteller and quite the jokester."

"Many of you probably saw him a lot at our meetings sitting in the second or third row here quietly watching and observing our meetings, showing the village his support," Quinlan said. "He will be greatly missed."

Mr. Heilmann was born June 1, 1931. He is survived by his wife, Therese; his children Cathy, Joe, John, Diane, Dave and Sue; 13 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren; six siblings and many nieces and nephews.

His children paid tribute to him in his obituary, stating: "Dad will be remembered for his wonderful story telling and jokes, popcorn with his grandkids, love for card games, family vacations, Florida trips and his passion for golf … So giving, so funny, so loved — our Hero."

Neighbors also posted tributes in an online guest book, remembering Mr. Heilmann as "a great neighbor" and for his many kindnesses.

Arrangements were made by the Blake-Lamb Funeral Home in Oak Lawn. A mass for Christian burial was held at St. Linus Church on Oct. 23. Interment was at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.

Oak Lawn residents wishing to express their condolences to the mayor and his family may sign the online guest book available on the Blake-Lamb website. A collection of 78 family photographs also is available for viewing.