Joseph Striska Obituary

Funny young boy that loved to create new games in 2012 at Willow Court.

Joey,
One year later, I can't believe it. I pray to you every day and I know you are listening. The days just seem to not be getting any better. I wish you were here with all of us, putting a big smile on all of our faces. You are the most amazing friend anyone could have asked for. I cherish all of our time that we spent together. I still can't take your number out of my phone; I'm still hoping this is all a dream. Either way I just want you to know I love you more than anything and we will meet again my sweet Joey.

Well Joe, its been a year. I miss you so much. It hasnt gotten any easier. I think about you everyday, sometimes I laugh at things you would say and do, sometimes its tears. but I know you are lookin out for us up there and hoping that I will get to see you again keeps me going. love you.

Dear sweet Joey through each day of your life I have thought of you and loved you so deeply, that continues. You loved life with an open and honest heart, you embraced life with charming enthusiasm. You have always had a special place in my heart that no one else can fill, and that too will continue. I pray that you knew just how much you were loved and are loved by your family and friends. I have heard it said that time heals all wounds, I can't see how that is possible, for the pain of losing you in this life hurts beyond anything I have know before. I miss you, I love you. I pray for you and for all that hurt. I will always love you.
Love,
Aunt Terri

Dear sweet Joey through each day of your life I have thought of you and loved you so deeply, that continues. You loved life with and open and honest heart, you embrased life with charming enthusiasm. You have always had a special place in my heart that no one else can fill, and that too will contiune. I pray that you knew just how much you were loved and are loved by your family and friends. I have heard it said that time heals all wounds, I can't see how that is possible, for the pain of losing you in this life hurts beyond anything I have know before. I miss you, I love you. I pray for you and for all that hurt. I will always love you.
Love,
Aunt Terri

To a loving, honest, funny, caring, and trustworthy person. I think I speak for everyone when I say that Joe is the definition of a true friend. No matter how much was going on in Joeys life, he pushed all that aside to listen and give advice to anyone and everyone. A year ago today, a piece of my heart was lost and everyday since it hasn't gotten any better. That void will always remain a void until we meet again. Thinking back to all the memories Joe and I shared throughout the years brought tears to my eyes, yet I couldn't help but smile and laugh at them. I always gave him a hard time about backing his car into every parking spot. The time our server bagged our leftover food in the same bag assuming we were going to our (same) home. He always came and visited me at everywhere I worked and even though he said he was just visiting and didn't want to buy anything, he still ended up spending money somehow. All of our Bakers Square nights and cookie pizza chow-downs. All I know is, God took Joe from us because he needed him more up in Heaven. I know this isn't the end of our time with Joe, and I'm looking forward to when we get to start up some more memories. I miss you and love ya Joe! Who loves ya babe?!

To Mary, Joe and Jimmy, my thoughts and prayers will forever be with you.

A year ago today our lives were changed forever. We all miss you so much Joey, nothing will ever be the same without you. You'll live on in our hearts and in our memories but I wish more than anything that you were with us still.
Love,
Mom, Dad, & Jimmy

Joey. Since I was fifteen you've been my big brother. I needed you to step in and take over that position. Thank you so much for doing so. I cherish memories I've had with you forever. I feel you watching over me every single day still. Thank you. I remember this day a year ago like it was yesterday. I will never forget you! Thanks big bro (: I can't wait to see you again! Love you always.

Callie Cernauskas

September 13, 2009

My Darling Joey,

Although I experience pain every single day because of your absense;
There is sweetness in remembering your life.

With so much love,
Your Gramma

Dear Joey, Why why why They say time heals all wounds. But this one is so big. Your light was so bright. Your heart was so giving. You are going to be missed and loved for the rest of our lives. Love Russ and Sandy

Mary, Joe, and Jimmy;

I can't believe that one year has gone by already! It seems like just yesterday. I still catch myself looking out the front window when your cutting the grass thinking it's Joey. Or when the kids are on the driveway late at night, I think about Joey. He was a GREAT kid who turned into an AWESOME young man! I will ALWAYS remember his smiling face! He always made time to say hello to me. I know there are no words I can say that can take away your pain, but know that I am thinking about you all and you know I am here if you ever need anything.

Love you guys!

Laura Pekich

What a horrible day it was a year ago. This past year, has been a long journey, for all of us that knew you. For now we can't make sense of God's plan, but I like to think you are in a better place, as you shine down from heaven. RIP Joe, you are missed by so many. Love You!

Aunt Kathy

It has been a year now since we lost our sweet smily Joey. People keep telling me that time heals everything, but let me tell you, it doesn't. My heart aches each and every day as I remember Joey. Joey was very kind and willing to help his grandma whenever needed. I knew I could count on him for anything. RIP dear Joey until I see you again. Love you! Grandma McNulty.

Joey,

I have looked at this same screen to type this all day long. It has taken me so long to be able to write this, and I do not even think I will be able to say all I want to say. I can not believe that we are at a year already. I was going through some things on my computer earlier and found the last conversation you and I had on AIM. It made me laugh a little, but made me tear up a bit too knowing we have all gone so long without being able to talk to you, to see you. I only knew you a short time, but it feels like my entire life. From the day I met you it was like we had been friends for ages. You made me laugh a ton and smile even more. I have a picture of us on my desk, along with two roses (now dried) from a bouquet you had given me last summer. I look at them every day and think of you. Come to think of it, I think of you every day, multiple times during the day. Whether I am walking to school, listening to a song that comes on the radio, or just doing nothing, you tend to pop into my mind. You are so greatly missed, Joey, by everyone. Words can not express what this year has been like, but I know you are with us everyday, watching over us, laughing with us, etc. I hold great memories of you in the short time I knew you that will be with me forever. Miss you so much, but I know you are with me :)

Love always

Mary, Joe, and Jimmy,

It is hard to believe that it has been a year since the last time that I saw Joey. I can still remember going bowling with him and the group that night before. And posting on this guest book has brought back all those memories and emotions from last September. I realized that over the last year that although Joey isn't here, he has not been lost. I see Joey every time Jimmy tries to talk to girls when Depa and I bring him out. I see Joey when I am over visiting the two of you, Mary and Joe. He truly was his father's son. In all our friends I see Joey, and how he changed all our lives. Although I knew Joey for only a short time he showed me a great deal about what it meant to be a friend and how to live life to its fullest.

Mary, Joe, and Jimmers - I am truly sorry for your loss.

Joe was the most amazing person i have ever met and known..I met him when i was 13 years old at the marina walking down main dock and i saw him jimmy and john walking and we ended up talking to them that night and since that night we hung out every weekend at the marina and he actually made it exciting for me to go out there..i still remember during the week days before we got our licenses we would talk till 3-4 in the morning on AIM every night and everytime a weekend would come around i would get so excited to come out there and we would have the best time and best talks. I must say anyone that was at the marina could understand one of the best times was "cooler hoppin" haha Joe was the most trustworthy person and would tell you exactly how it is and you could ALWAYS count on him for anything. One time i will never forget is when joe was the only guy that could ever sleep at my house and he slept here we stayed up all night watching the lion king and talking and about 4 in the morning we were listening to music and talking and i spilt my pop all over my cd player and it ran all down my wall and was all over my carpet and we were laughing so hard we woke everyone up and my dad just came in and said "shh" and we started laughin again.The best is getting the texts from him every morning and through out the day while he was sitting at work and would see a seagull everyday that would just fly in circles around him and we ended up calling him "harry". I had the best time and talks with joe and there is no one that can compare to him as a person, he will always be my elmo. He was the most caring person in the world he would put any one he loves in front of himself any day, i miss him so much i cant explain im so lost and confused without him, without having his guidance his talks his texts without seeing him its like having the best thing giving to u and taken away so fast. I know he will always be with us though and guide everyone in the right direction, and everytime i see a seagull i kno its him. Joe you will never be forgotten and I know one day all of us will be together again and it will be just like we left off. I love you and Miss You and I cant wait to see and be with you again!! Love your babygirl!

What can I say that hasn't already been said. Joey was one of the first people that I became friends with when I first move here 11years ago. He was my dance patner for gym class in eight grade and got first place in the Waltz. Sitting in the hallway in the morning before school starts and talking to him about the weekend or the night before. Making him uncomfortable talking about that thing that happens to women each month. Being or pretending to be mad at him and pulling his leg hairs. He was also my Prom Date and made sure I had the best time ever. He was the best friend any one can ask for. There could be months in between talks but you could always call him and it would be like it was just yesterday.
There has been a lot of things that have happened thoughout this year that I wish I could call him up and tell him. To get his advice, for him to make me laugh when I was getting to serious, or for him to say come over or lets get together and we will talk. I miss him so much I can't even explain.
So Joey I love you, I miss you and you will be in my heart forever.
Mom, Dad and Jimmy I love you guys you are always in my thoughts and prayers.

Joey,
I can't believe we're just days away from 1 year. It's taken me this long to write, because 360 days later, I still can't find any words to justify you being gone. Believe it or not, but it was only over 1 year that we knew each other but it felt like a lifetime. From the day Mike introduced us, it's like we were some of the best of friends ever since. Just as everyone has metioned, your smile, your laugh, your hugs, your texts EVERY morning just to say hi.. but most importantly how you made everyone around you feel so special.. it was all more than anyone could ever dream of in a friend.
Ya know, it says something when a year has gone by and I think the ENTIRE group has gotten together less than a handful of times, because you were the glue that held everyone together. You cared about everyone involved and never left anyone out. That's what made you so special, was your selflessness.
You have one of the strongest and most admirable families I have ever known. How much they all love you and are SO PROUD to be part of your family shows the love every family dreams of having.
Needless to say, I miss you Joey. I'm going to the beach again, exactly 1 year from the day I got some of the worst news in my life.. but I tell ya what, this time you'll be with me, and I know it. :o)
xoxo Love Always,
Em a.k.a Your Emmy ;o)

Joey,
We're only a few days away from a year that you've been gone, and it still seems so unreal. There isn't a day that goes by that I'm not missing you, your smile, hearing your voice, the drama, your temper, a "really?", a "what up baby?". I'd give anything and everything to have my baby back. To have our family whole.
It's been a long difficult year, the worst I've ever known. Getting through all those firsts...holidays, birthdays, parties, BBQ's without you was so hard, but it's the little day to day things that are the hardest. Not doing your laundry, not having you call to ask "what are we doing for dinner?", not buying your favorites when I go grocery shopping, Sunday breakfast, setting the table for three, not signing your name to a card, hearing the songs you loved to dance to, not hearing you singing them. I could go on and on, the list is endless, there are so many things that make my heart break all over again each and every day. I've cried an ocean of tears Joe, death is so final...missing you, knowing I can't ever have another big hug from you...it just keeps getting harder.
They say that time heals all wounds, but I'm not finding that to be true. Nothing can heal the pain of losing you. Nothing can fill the void in our life. Nothing can bring back the joy that was you. Though we're moving on with our lives, going forward because we have to, because you would have wanted us to, it's not the same, and never will be again. There's always something...missing.
You'll live on in our hearts, and in our memories, we'll cherish and treasure them as we cherished and treasured you Joey. You were the finest son a parent could hope for, we couldn't have been any more proud or blessed. I hope you know that, I hope you know how much we adored you. I hope you know how many lives you touched...how many people cared about you and loved you. How many people miss you. I hope God knows what he has in you.
I still worry about you, if you're at peace, if you're happy, if you hear us crying or feel our grief. A million thoughts and unanswerable questions have kept me awake at night, are you up in heaven with family and friends? Will I see you again? There is some peace in thinking that I will, I sincerely hope it's true. So until then, there's one last thing I hope you know...I'll love you forever Joey, and miss you even more.
Mom

Joe was the "best" best friend my daughter could ever have found. He was fun, kind, sincere and always honest. I enjoyed Joe every time he came to our house, and Laurel loved being a part of his life and family. I think of Joe often and miss him. He had a smile that would light up the room! He is truly missed by so many.... he was a sign of love.

I met Joey when we were in kindergarten at Woodridge School. I had the pleasure of having Joey as a friend for over 10 years. My earliest, fondest memory of him was when we were in first grade. He used to chase me and another girl around the playground at recess, and whenever he'd catch one of us we tag him back immediately and we'd all start running again. He always put up with my shenanigans with a huge smile on his face. I miss that smile everyday and I take it with me everywhere I go. Not a day goes by that I don't think about him and look at back at all of the wonderful memories I had with him. From the countless hours we'd spend in the pool or playing video games, the time we went to turnabout together junior year of high school, going to his boat on lake Michigan, going out to grab drinks with friends; the memories go on and on. He was always there to talk with and laugh with, and he never hesitated to call me out on my crap.
I can't believe its almost been a whole year without Joey. There's so much I wish that I could tell him everyday and it's so hard not to see him at home. He was such a wonderful person with the biggest heart, and he touched so many lives in his short 22 years. It's a shame he was taken away so soon. He was and will always be my best friend, my brother. Miss you and love you Chumpy.
And to Mary, Joe, and Jimmy: My thoughts are always with you, and I hope you guys know how much you mean to me. You've been like a family to me, and I'm thankful to have you all by my side through this. I love you guys.

Mary, Joe, & Jimmy,

I know I haven't kept in touch over the years but I do think of all of you often. I can't image how you feel, or how you would get over the pain of losing such a great son/brother in your life. I can just think of Joey in my mind with that grin, that what did I do grin. And the biggest memory I have with Joey is him playing batman on the ceiling fan with the jump rope. I have alot of good memories of Joey. It is a shame this happened to such a good kid. I wish I had the right words to say that would make this all better. I can't believe it has been almost a year. Hopefully everyday will get a little easier for you. If you need anything please let me know.
Love,
Karen

It's hard to believe that its almost been a year without you. I think about you all the time (more than I would care to admit). Losing you has probably changed my life more than losing anyone else that I know. I miss heading out to the city to grab a couple drinks with you. I miss talking to you over the phone everyday after work just to go over our days (and about your constant "drama"). Your days were always so much more interesting than mine. I guess I just miss you in general.

But I've come to realize that there is absolutely nothing that I, or that anyone else can do to bring you back. The only thing we can do is to remember the good times (and I do - and there are plenty of them to remember).

You were always there for me Joe, and even though you may not have known it, I learned a lot from you everyday. Even now you are still teaching me - life is short, we all have to live it to its fullest.

Your best friend, Depa

Every day you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. I experience more and more the pain of not having you around, or seeing your "Good Morning Sweetie" texts to start my day off. Over the months I've realize the impact you made in my life, as well as the life of everyone you knew. Almost one year later, and it's still just as hard as the first week. I feel you with me everyday, and I'm so thankful for that. I miss you so much Joe. And for Mr. and Mrs. Striska and Jim, I pray for you to have the strength to get through each day having dealt with such a great loss.

I can't believe it's been almost a year. Everytime I think of Joey I think of the first time I meet the family at Aunt Mary's house. All the boys were young-Joey and Jimmy. The thing I remember the most was Joey and Jim riding their plastic cars down the driveway. They were wicked fast. You thought for sure they were going to crash into the garage. It was so much fun to watch. One other time that holds a special place in my heart was when Joey went with Garrett and us to the Brookfield zoo when Garrett was 3. I know Garrett remembers that day because he nicknamed Joey "Kangaroo" that day and gave all the boys nick names while we visited that time. Like naming Jim "Banana" and Mike "Screwed up Rabbit". Joey will always hold a special place in our hearts. May he always look over all of us and keep us safe-our own Guardian Angel because "Angel" he was.You will truly be missed, visits in Illinios will never be the same.

Love, Jenise

I cannot even explain my feelings of loss. Never has anything hurt so badly. Not a day goes by that Joe is not in my thoughts. Your physical presence has been taken away, but you will always be close in my heart. Your death has left a heartache that no one can heal. I know how much your Mom, Dad & Jimmy are hurting. Everyday it’s difficult to see beyond their sorrow & wish I could take their pain away. I am truly proud of the way they have had to carry on, knowing how difficult is for them. We had a lot of laughs with our families, which I am grateful for. We continue to struggle to make sense of it all. I miss you Joe that you are not here to share in the laughs now & then. RIP Joe, you will be with us forever.

Love, Aunt Kathy

August 17, 2009

Our hearts still hurt with the loss of your dear son and the pain that you all have lived with. We think of you often and hope you are healing with every day that goes by. Our arms will always be open to both of you.

I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.

Joey,
I have been thinking about you and missing you like crazy! But you already know that!!! You have so many friends and family who love you! I know that you are with Mary and that you are fine. I pray that your family is able to find that same peace. I will always be grateful for the fact that I was a part of your childhood and that I was able to watch you grow up to be a fine young man.

Most sincerely, Karla

Our memories of Joey are held near to our hearts. We did not have the privilege of sharing a lot of time with him, but from the time he was a little baby to a grown man, we could see and feel his caring and compassionate nature. He LOVED his family and he LOVED his friends. He was full of life and who could forget that smile! No matter what might have been going on with his friends, he was always right there to hang out with us when we came to visit, making us laugh and always made us feel a part of his life. He was a true joy to be around and so sadly missed. Those visits will never be the same. We love you, Joey..Aunt Laura & Uncle Ken

June 22, 2009

Hey Joey,

The hardest part about writing you today is knowing you won’t write back, but I had some things to tell you so here I am.

I gotta tell you I miss you. And it’s the worst feeling in the world knowing that I will miss you for the rest of my life. I have to honest with you, I was angry for awhile, so angry that you of all people had you go so soon. I don’t think that it’s fair, but then again life is not fair right?

You are not here to watch the girls grow, you are not here to laugh and talk with, your just not here and it is so hard. We all miss you so much. I’m scared that my girls are going to grow up and forget you, and I’m sad you will never get to hold Natalie. I hope you keep them all safe from heaven, and I hope that you are watching them grow every day.

Mike took me to the Kenny Chesney concert and I had a blast, I knew you would have come too if, you could have. I cried thinking about it that night, singing his songs and drinking beer…that was so you Joe. All the things we cant do together anymore really suck. Like golfing, swimming, sports…we had so much fun didn’t we? I really miss doing all those things already.

I see your mom and dad and Jimmy all the time just like usual, the only thing missing is you. I know they are hurting, and I don’t know how this kind of hurt can ever get better. You missed your brothers 21st birthday; they all went to Vegas, just like we did with you. Mike and I wanted to go but couldn’t get a babysitter for the girls. It was hard to say that to your brother and parents after the past 10 months. We have to wait for Natalie to get bigger for a vacation away from her.

Every time we are at the house I look up to your room and my heart sinks. You should be here with us Joe. You have forever changed our lives, all the fun and joy you brought to us, I will forever be grateful. I just want you to know that I will miss you forever, and trust that I will never forget you. There will never be a day that I don’t think of you and there will never be one minute I won’t miss you. You were the greatest friend anyone could ever ask for.

I miss you.

~Erica~

Dear Joey,
Not a day goes by that I don't think about you. I miss you more and more every day. You light up a room when you walked in. No matter where we were in our lives, you always made sure we kept in touch. You were my best friend, a shoulder to cry on, the best listener and above all, the greatest person to ever come into my life. Even if I told you I was fine, you would always know when I wasn't. We could talk about anything and everything. You have made the greatest impact on my life and you continue to do so. I always think, "what would Joe say to me if he knew this..." You're greatly missed by everyone you have ever known. You always knew how to make people feel welcome no matter where you were. I miss seeing your smiling face and getting the biggest hug every time I saw you. I will always remember the times we've shared and the memories we've made. I love you so much and will continue to think about you every day. I know you're watching over all of us and making sure we're all ok.

"Love is missing someone whenever you're apart, but somehow feeling warm inside because you're close in heart." I miss you Joeyyy.

"Who loves you babe?" I will remember you saying those words forever. You touched so many lives in the years you spent on earth, and also helped bring sunshine on those sad days we all encountered. I will miss you dearly. You were a great friend.

Striska Family,
As I work on the scrapbook and go through all of Joey's pictures I miss him more and more. The only comforting thing is looking at the pictures and seeing him smile back at me. He had a million dollar smile. His smile would lighten up any room. Before he even got a chance to say hello, his smile would make you feel welcome. One of my favorite characteristics of Joey was that you always knew where you stood with him. He was never afraid to tell you how he felt. Joey would always tell his friends he loved and cared for them. He never wanted there to be any question of how he felt. I loved that about him. I think about him everyday! I miss his Joeyisms, I miss his smile, and I miss his friendship. I know I have an angel up there watching out for me. I can not wait till the day I get to see him again. You have always been like a second family to me. Know that you will always be in my thoughts and prayers!
Love you all!

Dear Joey: As I think about you on your Birthday, April 25, 2009, I think about the time I first saw you when your Mom and Dad brought you home from the hospital, I think of the song by Kenny Loggins, "For the first time". We all miss you and can't understand why God took you from us so soon. I think of your smiling face every day. God Bless and RIP Dear Joey. Love Grandma McNulty

Dear Striska Family,
There is not a day that goes by that I don't think about Joey and your family. I am truly blessed to have met a man like Joey and know that I will see him again in a much better place. I can still see him smiling as if we were back at country thunder or sitting in your basement! I am so very thankfull for the time I was able to spend with Joey!! I have no words for how sorry I am.... Joey, until we meet again I will always picture your beautiful smile!

You will be forever missed,
Love & Prayers,
Vikki Saso

Dear Joe, Mary and Jimmy,

Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you now since I just heard about the untimely passing of you son/brother Joey. Unfortunately, it has been many years since I have seen him. What does come to my mind is the time Joey took a jump rope and hung it over the ceiling fan and tried flying around when it was on. We can laugh about that now, from what I have read he's been making many people laugh for a long time now, what a special gift. Treasure your memories of him, for that can never be taken away from you. Talk of him often, so his spirit continues on. Remember to be still, so you can hear what he has to say. I'm so very truly sorry and deeply sadend for you loss.

Mr. Striska, Mrs. Striska, and Jimmy,

I pray for you all everynight. Joey was one of those guys who were one in a million. I am proud to say that he was one of my friends. He was an honest, hardworking, funny, and an amazing guy who I will miss with all of my heart. His time on earth may not have been long as any of us would have liked but his time was meaningful. I know that we all lost a good friend and a great guy but we also all gained an angel to watch over us. I will never forget my summers at the boat spending all weekend with him, he made it so much fun out there for me. I have many memories of Joey and I cherish them.
Be strong, and God bless.

Kathy and Joe, I know I offered our prayers before, but after taking the time tonight to read what people have had to say about Joey I wish I had had the chance to get to know him. I believe I meet him once with Mom when he was a baby, we took a ride in to see him. From what everyone has said it seems that you and Joe deserve the credit for raising such a remarkable son. Why the Lord does these things we will not know while on this earth, but he must have been special to be called so early, even though we didn't know him well I fell that we have another angel above watching over all of this crazy family. Take care and if you ever want to email, I have had a lot of experience dealing with grief and lost, still not as much as you and I think about you so much. Love and prayers Brenda

We Called Him Joey...and he smiled!

I remember the day Mary told me she was pregnant. I couldn't imagine how their lives would change with a new house and, a baby to come soon after. I remember the first time I saw him...so little...so cute...those tiny feet and such a smile! His name would be Joseph and we would call him Joey.

I remember Mary telling us stories over the years, of the destruction kids can do to a home and I remember laughing so hard my sides hurt. I remember Joey at holidays and summer parties, always laughing, smiling, chatting on and on. I remember that little boy growing up over the years. There were moments where he made me wonder, moments where he made me annoyed, and moments where he made me stop and think. But mostly there were moments were he made me laugh. I remember so many things about this little child of Mary and Joe that we called Joey.

I think the thing I'll always recall when I think of him is his smile. We all have a thing that people always remember. For me it was truly Joey's smile. It embraced you when he walked into a room, and reassured you when he left.

I watched him grow from a tiny infant to a toddler and on and on until he was a grown man. It was an amazing ride for me. It was a privilege to have been a part of his life for the short time God gave him to us. His work on earth, for now is done, and he is much needed elsewhere. His journey begins anew.

On a cold day this October when the wind was blowing so strong it stung my skin, I looked up and saw a child who smiled at me and the warmth of that smile warmed my heart, and the chill went away. It was then I thought...I remember Joey's smile...and a tear fell from my eye.

God bless and protect this little child called Joey. We all loved him as much as we could and we all miss him as much as our hearts will allow. Gone, but never forgotten is this first son of Mary and Joe. We called him Joey...and he smiled!

Love, Aunt Laura & Uncle Patrick McNulty

Dear Mary, Joe, & Jimmy,

Living so far away, I never got the chance to be close to my cousins. But any time we come out to visit, Joey always made me feel that I fit in. It is not fair that we had to lose Joey so soon. He will always be in our hearts and in our memories. We will never forget his smile which is larger than life or his outgoing personallity. We are going to miss him. Our thoughts and our prayers are with you through this hard time. We love you guys and we wish we were closer.
Love,
Steve, Jenise, & Garrett

Dear Joe, Mary, and Jimmy,

I was impressed when I met Joey with his maturity and ability to carry on a conversation with anyone. He was such a personable guy, you don't find that too often with kids his age.
He was so nice to me and quite a gentleman. He was a joy to be around.
I pray for God to give you strength and help you heal.

Sandy

Joe, Mary & Jimmy,
What can I say; our hearts ache for you as you go through this. You are not alone though. Your family and friends are here for you and continue to pray for you. Like everyone that knew Joey, we continue to struggle to make sense of this. It is God’s plan and I am sure God needed Joey to come home to him. He was such a great kid and grew up to be a wonderful young man. We are thankful to have been a part of Joey’s life and shared so many great times with all of you. He will be missed but never forgotten as he lives on in our hearts.
Love,
Eddie & Laura Vince

Eulogy given by Jim Depa
I am proud to say that I was best friends with Joe for over 20 years of my life.
We met as little kids after his family had moved across the court from my house and were inseperable ever since.
For the last 20 years we’ve done just about everything together and Joe and his relatives always treated me more
like a family member than just a friend.
Even though Joe’s time on this Earth was cut short we should all take solace in the fact that he lived an amazingly
fulfilled life. He loved sports and was able to go to so many Chicago sporting events -
( his family was nice enough to
bring me along to most). He got to travel all over the country to Florida, Las Vegas, Alaska, and Hawaii.
(I didn’t get to go on those trips, what gives)
And was involved in boating on Lake Michigan for a dozen years where we were able to meet a great set of friends
( I’m talking about all you boaters - you know who you are)
He experienced more and made more friends in 22 years than most people do in their entire lives.
I'm sure Joey is smiling down from heaven right now because he was
nothing but a true best friend. He was one of the most generous people that I have ever met, a trait that he must
have learned from his parents. He was always a genuinely caring person - he wouldn’t ever hesitate to ask you
how you were doing or if there was anything he could do to help.
And I don't even have to elaborate on one his best traits - his outgoingness. Just
look around at all of the people that he was able to touch in his life - its unbelievable.
You will be forever missed Joe. I love you buddy.’

Dear Joe, Mary and Jimmy,
Words cannot express how sad we were when we found out about Joey's passing. He was a bright, funny and sometimes wild and crazy kid out at the marina, but that made him all the more loveable. We will never forget that shock of red hair walking down C dock, usually with skin to match! God must have needed him for something special up in heaven, because only the good die young.
Take care of yourselves, our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Love,
The Harte's from "C Dock"
Fred, Jeri, Lauren, Krystle and Jenna

Eulogy given by Mike Zalud:
There are no words to express our loss, our grief, our sorrow, nothing can excuse the future that was cheated, nothing can erase the past or our memories, nothing can ease our pain but time.
To know Joey was to love him, he had a big smile, a great big heart, and an even bigger mouth, God he loved to talk. But he listened too, he was always there for his family, his friends, always willing to share their problems, always trying to fix them, always willing to help. No matter what you needed, Joey was the go to guy. His life was too short in years, but full for his 22 years. He was blessed with very loving parents, a best friend in his brother, a close knit family of Grandmothers, Aunt’s, Uncles, cousins, as well as his extended family of boaters, and a wealth of friends, old and new.
He was so full of life and passion, a happy go lucky kid, most of the time, occasionally a bit of a hot head. But you always knew where you stood with him. Joey Drama wasn’t afraid to show his emotions, whether he loved you or disliked you, if he was happy, angry, or sad you knew, he wore his big generous heart on his sleeve, and the weight of the world on his shoulders.
He loved music, any kind of music, but especially Christmas music, he was always singing or dancing, doing the worm. He also loved boating and sports, playing or watching, he was a die hard Chicago fan, no matter which team Cubs, Sox, Bears, or Bulls, no matter how much they stunk, he was always loyal.
Joey was a very social person “What’s up baby? What’s going on? What are we doing? Let’s get together, let’s do something,”-he loved to entertain, he always had to be doing something.
He graduated from North Central College just a few short months ago with a dual degree in Business Marketing and Business Management, he was fortunate enough to immediately find a job that he loved, and was really looking forward to making his way to the top. A goal he would have achieved if he had more time-the opportunity was there, he already had the drive and ambition. No one here could doubt he would have succeeded.
He was a wonderful son, a great brother, a caring Grandson, the best friend, he will be sorely missed, an empty place in our life, but he will always remain in our hearts. We all loved you Joey. May you rest in peace, God bless.
Love,
Mom

Joey was more than just my cousin. He was my go-to guy, one of my best friends, one of the best friends anyone could ever ask for, even when we were just kids. The protective older cousin routine started the moment I was born and never got old. He did everything from holding my hand through the haunted house when we were little, to giving me the greatest hugs when I had troubles in my life. We were there for each other. I can’t tell you how many countless nights we spent talking online until the very early hours of the morning. I could talk to him about anything. He could pick up on every emotion of those closest to him. Before he could even speak, he would give me a look and I would just tell him everything, good or bad.
Joe was so personable. Someone just told me yesterday that he had only just met Joe, and after a half hour of talking to him, felt like he knew Joe his whole life. Joe had no problems making friends. He worked hard in his life and had anything he could ever ask for. He loved his family and his friends. Joe made sure everyone was taken care of. He would come over to Gram’s house at least once a week, just to take the garbage out for her and sit for a visit.
He was an athlete, a Cubs fan, a Bears fan, and just simply a sports fan. He was full of life and always looking for fun. Out on the boat in Lake Michigan, on the jet skis, relaxing in the hot tub, playing in the pool, playing a bit of piano, wrestling on the hay stacks at the pumpkin patch, gambling on the horses at Arlington park, or playing a game of pick-up basketball, baseball, bags, poker, or any other game you can come up with. He was such a goof, but was always happy.
Joey was such a gentleman, a spiffy dresser, and everyone knows his signature smile, one that will be imprinted in our minds forever. Joey loved dressing up for work, school, holidays, a night out, or when he was younger: just strutting around the house.
Joey has helped shape many of us into who we are today. There will definitely be a void in all of our lives, but we will never forget him. He touched the lives of many, as it shows in this room today and yesterday.

Joe, Mary and Jimmy,

I am terrinbly sorry for your loss. Joey is an amazing person. I will miss him immensly. I knew that when i needed a friend i could alway call him and he would be there to listen. This is so hard cause i don't know what to say. (I love you Joe and i will miss you so much my dear friend.) He will always be with us in our hearts as well as our memories. He is in a better place looking down on us and smiling.
Love
Kate Reda-Bingham

Mr. and Mrs. Striska and Jimmy,
I just found out about the loss of your wonderful son and brother.

I started chatting with Joey again about 2 years ago after not talking for a very long time...lost touch once I outgrew being that loud girl playing down in the court with the Depa boys. He had grown up to be a wonderful man with one of the most optimistic attitudes I have ever encountered. He always had a way of putting a positive spin on situations and making one realize that there was always a reason for what happens in life...which is what I keep in mind now while trying to make sense of this tragedy. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this sad time. God bless

Carolyn Apanavicius

Dear Mr. & Mrs. Striska & Jimmy,

I greatly saddened by the loss of your son and brother.
Joe was one of the greatest friends i ever had, and he was much more then that to me. This has been so hard on me as everyone else. Joe was always there for me through thick and thin over the years. Joe was always there for everyone, always wanted to make sure everyone he cared about was happy,he was the best listener, and always made sure people knew how if he felt & cared about them. I could go on & on of the great things about him.He always made me smile, and always talked sense to me when i needed him too. No matter what Joe always told me how much i meant to him. Joe definitely touched my life in many ways, and im so thankful that i have sooooo many memories to cherish forever and ever. Ill never forget all our memories.
Every single day i pray and hope this is a horrible nightmare, and ill see joe or get a call or text. Nothing will ever fill this void. I know that Joe is our angel now watching over all of us. He will always be around.

You guys have always treated me like family through the years, and although i do not know the pain you are feeling as parents and a brother, i am always here for you all the days ahead.

love always,
angie

Dear Mr. & Mrs. Striska & Jimmy,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and all your family. I just found out about Joe a few days ago and I was speechless. He was such a wonderful guy and could always make you laugh. I just saw you guys over a month ago at a wedding and even though I hadn't talked to Joe for over a year he still came up to me like it had only been a week and said hello and everything. I was so happy to see him. It's so hard to believe it but he is in a better place now and is watching over everyone. Joe will always be remembered as a terrific person with a huge heart.

To my sweet little boy who grew into a wonderful young man,
I know you're in heaven safe in Gods hands.
You brightened our days with your beautiful smile,
we'll all be missing you for quite a long while.
There's a void in our lives that we can never fill,
oh how I wish you were here with us still.
You filled our home with joy, laughter, and love,
you made us so proud, you were much beloved.
Whatever we needed you were always there,
to listen, to help, to show that you cared.
We miss you so much, our hearts just ache,
we don't understand why it was you God had to take.
Your whole life was ahead of you, there was so much to do,
it isn't right, it isn't fair that he cheated you.
Our only comfort is knowing you're in a better place,
but I'd much rather have the comfort of your embrace.
The days ahead will never be the same without you,
for us, our family, and your friends too.
We love you Joe, with all our hearts,
it won't be easy being apart.
So until the day we're together again,
you'll remain in our hearts, our thoughts, and our prayers--amen.
Love always,
Mom

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Dear Mary, Joe & Jim,

We all have great memories of Joey, many would make you laugh and many many more would make you proud. Joey truly was the greatest son, grandson, cousin, and friend anyone could have ever asked for. You knew with Joey he was always going to be dependable, honest, compassionate...and he was always good for a laugh. You should be so proud of how great a son you raised. Joey really did touch the lives of every person he met and he will always be missed. We have great comfort in knowing that Joey is going to take good care of us all, just as he did for us in life he will do the same in death. We know that we can always look to the sky and get a smile in return and we know that he will always be by our sides.

It is hard for us to understand the heartache you endure each day, this pain we do not know. And while we cannot take your pain away please know that we will always be by your side filling a great void with precious memories.

We Love You,

Joe, Mary, Jim

There is nothing in this world that will change our broken hearts. We have three sons but with Jim & Joe it was if we had five. I sit here that I'm going to wake up from this horrific nightmare. Right now we all feel cheated & certainly don't understand. Our world is never going to be the same without that beautiful kid. We had a lot of laughs with our families & lots of good times shared. Joe was an awesome son, brother, cousin & friend to all who knew him. My heart & gut aches for all of us, we lost a nephew, cousin & friend, but the memories that we all share will never be forgotten.

I'll never forget when I came over to your house when he was little & he didn't like meat (boy did that change) he pulled out that hamburger from the inside of that coffee table with those cute eyebrows raised up "Aunt Kathy look Mom thinks I ate it", I said Joe how long has that been there, it looked like it had been there for a week. I still crack up everytime I think of that. Not to mention the holes from the fireplace poker on the side of the new couch. I could go on forever in all the fun times we had, but for now I want you to know John & I love you guys & we are here for you and in the days ahead.

Love,
Kathy

Dear Mary, Joe and Jimmy:
There are no words to express how broken hearted I am. I wish I could find the words to mend your broken hearts, but there are none. Just keep your faith and know that Joey is in a better place and know that I love you. Joey always had a smile for his grandma and was always ready to help me in any way. Take care and know that you have many friends and family that love you and are willing to help you through this terrible tragedy. Love, Grandma McNulty

Dear Striska Family,
This is Krisy Henderson. I met Joey in Hammond when we all used to go boating there. I just found out today that he had passed. I've been trying to contact him and I was wondering why I hadn't heard from him. I am SO terribly sorry for your loss. Joey was an amazing person and by far my best friend in the entire world and I truely loved him. I have no idea what happened. I would love to hear from someone. Please e-mail me. [email protected]