PEORIA ~ Joseph Richard Dolan, the Irishman, age 85, a lifelong Peorian, peacefully passed away in his sleep at 1 a.m. on Saturday, December 28, 2019. He was at Heddington Oaks in West Peoria, Illinois. His family and friends were at his bedside.

Born June 27, 1934 in Peoria, he was the son of Burtram J. and Bernadine (Barry) Dolan. Joseph was a graduate of Cathedral School and Spalding Institute and went on to attend Bradley University and served in the United States Army. On January 14, 1967 he married Janet Linder and had two children. Joe later married Delta Lowder on May 26, 1978.

Joseph is survived by his wife, Delta; his children, Kellie (Dolan) and Larry Walker; Amy (Dolan) and Doug Karpowicz; step-children, Vickie Clanin, Robert and Pam Lowder, Todd Lowder, Dean and Michelle Lowder; grandchildren, Blake Biggs, Emmely Walker and Cole Walker; step-grandchildren, Jeremy Clanin, Heather Keith, Ryan and Olivia Lowder; nieces and nephews, Debbie Shindledecker, John Marshall, Gene Marshall, Maureen Trovillion, Peggy Horchem and Nancy Sisco.

Joseph was preceded in death by his parents; and one sister, Elizabeth (Dolan) and Gene Marshall.

He was employed at R.J. Reynolds, Pioneer Manufacturing, Oakite, Peoria Journal Star and Bradley University. He was a member of the American Legion and the Knights of Columbus 1st Degree Spalding Council #427.

In addition to spending time with family and friends, Joe loved golf and basketball. He played in several Men’s City Championships.

Visitation will be from 4 to 6 p.m. Thursday, January 2, 2020 at St. Mark’s Catholic Church. His funeral Mass will be at 11 a.m. Friday, January 3, 2020 at the church. Msgr. Brian Brownsey will officiate. An additional visitation will be 30 minutes prior to the service at the church on Friday. Burial will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery in West Peoria.

Memorial contributions may be given to St. Mark’s Catholic Church or St. Philomena’s Catholic Church.

Friends and family may sign the online guest book and or leave their private condolences by logging onto www.wrightandsalmon.com.

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