Joseph L. Hynek

** Due to the ongoing construction on Rt. 30, click here for an alternate route to the funeral home if you are coming from the West: Alternate Route

Joseph L. Hynek , age 95, of Schererville, IN, formerly of Calumet City, IL, passed away Monday, August 19, 2024. He is survived by his two loving sons: Joseph M. (Margo) Hynek and Dr. Jeffrey (Elaine) Hynek; four grandsons: Michael (Rachel Mabbott) Hynek, Matthew (Lauren) Hynek, Johnathan Hynek, and David Hynek; one granddaughter, Rachael Hynek; two great grandsons: Owen and Liam Hynek; former daughter-in-law, Chris Hynek; one sister, Anne (late Eugene) Troksa; three sisters-in-law: Clara (late Walter) Wasko, Helen (late Frank) Rymarczyk, Barbara (Lynn) Mattingly; and many nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his wife Rita of 61 years; parents, John and Angeline Hynek, and parents-in-law, Vincent and Martha Pszczola; two brothers: Frank (Lottie) Hynek and John (Adi) Hynek; one sister, Wanda (Bernard) Johnsen; one sister-in-law, Ceil (Matt) Gross.

Joe was a graduate from Henry Clay grade school and CVS high school. He was a retiree from Inland Steel Company where he worked as a mechanic.  He served two years in the Army with a rank of corporal. Joe was a member of the American Legion in Calumet City.  In his youth he enjoyed baseball and pitched for Szarek’s Auto Sales team.  Joe and Rita enjoyed dancing, dining out, and spending time with family. His other hobbies were sketching and painting, model building, and woodworking.  Late in life he was known as the Silver Fox.  He will be missed by family and friends, and was loved by all.

Visitation Monday, August 26, 2024 from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. with a vigil service to be held at 6:00 p.m. at Smits Funeral Home, 2121 Pleasant Springs Lane, Dyer, IN. A Prayer service will be held on Tuesday, August 27, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. at Smits Funeral Home leaving to St. Andrew the Apostle Church/ Jesus, Shepherd of Souls, 768 Lincoln Ave. Calumet City, IL, for a 10:00 a.m. funeral Mass.  Interment Holy Cross Cemetery – Calumet City, IL. In lieu of flowers memorials may be given to charity of choice.  For further information, please contact 219-322-7300 or visit our online obituary and guest book at www.SMITSFH.com