Charles J. Thalman, Sr., better known as Joe - of Naperville IL, formerly of Westmont, IL, Maple Park, IL, Clermont FL and Jersey City, NJ, at eternal peace on April 13, 2020. He was born on October 2, 1928 in Jersey City, New Jersey to Charles A. & Catherine Thalman, who died of birth complications days later. His father was aided in raising the young Joe by loving Uncles, Aunts and cousins.

Joe began his military service in 1944 at the age of 16 in the United States Coast Guard. He enlisted in the United Sates Army in 1946 serving with the 6th Infantry Division in Korea until his discharge in 1949. He was awarded the WWII Occupation and Victory Medal.

He fell in love and married Alice "Honey" Powers on February 4th, 1950 and settled down in Jersey City, NJ to begin their family together, welcoming three children into their hearts and home. Joe worked for the American Can Company for most his career in NJ. He was a loyal New York Mets fan and could be heard cheering on his team while listening to the radio on a hot summer night.

The family moved to Illinois in 1970, and Joe joined the United States Postal Service. He grew to love his job, seeing beyond the numbers on the house to the families inside. He took pride in not just delivering the mail, but looking out for the neighborhood kids getting off the bus, the elderly who needed a helping hand and the dogs that called his route home. He had a pocketful of treats for every dog he encountered. He served as a union representative and enjoyed traveling to many conventions representing the Lisle Post Office. He was grateful for the opportunity to visit the USS Arizona Memorial in Pearl Harbor on one of his last trips before retirement.

While living in Westmont Joe was a faithful attender of Holy Trinity Church as well as an officer in the Westmont Knight of Columbus organization. After retirement, he spent his time as a much beloved crossing guard for his neighborhood grammar school and delivering prescriptions to seniors for a local pharmacy.

He was often seen at his grandkids and great-grandkids sporting competitions, school plays and concerts. His smile was infectious and he never met a stranger. A highlight in his waning years was sky diving with his granddaughter Katy and daughter-in-law Teri on his 80th birthday. His smile was never bigger than when he jumped out of a plane - and landed safely! May he rest in peace in the safe arms of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

He is survived by his children Larry (Brenda) Thalman, Charlie (Teri) Thalman and Cathy (Gary) Darrah; his grandchildren Jason, Katy, Christopher, Kelly, Bess, Merry and Reed; and his 15 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 66 years, Alice "Honey" and his grandson Joshua Thalman.

Heartfelt thanks to the caring staff at Meadowbrook Manor Naperville, and Angel's Grace Hospice care givers.

A memorial service to celebrate Joe's life will be held at a later date.

Memorial gifts may be directed to - Maple Park American Legion .