Joseph Anthony Hamilton

Joseph Anthony Hamilton, 75, of Sandwich, IL passed away on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his family. He was born on August 17, 1950, in Chicago, IL, the son of John and Eleanor (Crowley) Hamilton.

Joseph proudly served his country in the US Navy during the Vietnam war aboard the USS Enterprise. His service reflected a lifelong sense of dedication, strength, and pride.

Before his time in the Navy, Joseph lived on the west side of Chicago and Wheaton, IL with his 15 brothers and sisters, Mary (Roger) Tully, Jack-deceased (Jennifer) Hamilton, Dan Hamilton, Therese (James-deceased) McNerney, Kitty (Gary) Bruno, Marge (Cary-deceased) Coleman, Steve-deceased (Barbara) Hamilton, Michael Hamilton (deceased), Ann (Cookie-deceased) Hamilton, Jim Hamilton-deceased, Patrick-deceased (Gloria) Hamilton, Nori (Mark) Eder, Christine (Jim) Neilsen, Alice (Mike) Furgason, and baby Anthony Paul Hamilton-deceased; sisters in law Kathy Hamilton and Dorothy Bosco.

After the Navy, Joseph joined the Sheet Metal Union, worked with Illinois Range and later with the Chicago Transit Authority, where he was beloved by all. Joseph made friends wherever he went and maintained several of those relationships to this day. He eventually retired after many years of service.

In his retirement, he lived with his sister in Sandwich, IL and found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He loved playing his guitar, listening to folk and gospel music, and solving sudoku puzzles from the comfort of his recliner. These quiet moments brought him peace and contentment.

Above all, Joseph was a devoted Christian whose faith guided him every day. Some of his most cherished moments were spent with his sisters, reading the Bible together, sharing fellowship, and growing in faith.

Joseph was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Bonnie Gooden, with whom he shared many years of love and companionship.

He is survived by his children, Vickie (Jeff) Hawkins, Paul (Niki) Hamilton, and Anna Hamilton and Bonnie’s daughter, Shannon Young, and his cherished grandchildren. He also leaves behind extended family and friends who will deeply miss him and carry his memory forward.

A special thank you to his Sister Ann for caring for him these past years. God truly knew what he was doing when he made you roommates. We love you and forever will be grateful.

Arrangements were entrusted to Turner-Eighner Funeral Home. Services will be held tentatively on July 18, 2026 at Queen of Hearts Cemetery. It will be a joint service for both Joe and Bonnie Hamilton. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Wounded Warrior Project. 

For more information or to sign the online guestbook go to www.EighnerFuneralHome.com 

Turner-Eighner Funeral Home 

13160 W. Rt 34 ~ P.O. Box 404

Somonauk, IL 60552 

815-498-2363