Joseph Rotman Victor's Obituary
Joseph Rotman Victor, of Springfield, Illinois, passed away peacefully in Plano, Texas, on January 14, 2025, surrounded by family and the songs of Frank Sinatra. A man of humor, charm, and a passion for storytelling, Joe lived a life filled with rich experiences and deep, lasting connections.
Joe often described himself as a child of the 1950s, a formative decade during which he graduated from Butler Grade School, Springfield High School, and Northwestern University. Ever proud of his alma mater, Joe delighted in reminding everyone that he earned a BS in Public Speaking-a degree he appreciated as a playful reflection of his gift for connecting with others and his wry sense of humor.
Shortly after college, Joe joined Illinois Thrifty Drugs, the company his father founded. He worked his way up to President, fostering lifelong relationships with those who helped the pharmacies thrive-a second family to the Victors. His career took him across the country, frequently to New York 's famed 21 Club, which became his home away from home, and to many Super Bowls, where he cherished the camaraderie and reveled in the game festivities. Later, he led The Winston Company, continuing a career defined by tenacity and entrepreneurial spirit.
Joe was especially proud of his role as Chairman of the LPGA Rail Charity Golf Classic, an experience that introduced him to the Illini Country Club. After work, he could often be found there, taking the occasional mulligan off the first tee, enjoying a good cigar, and playing gin rummy with close friends. Known for his love of red wine and his notable aversion to tomatoes, Joe had a deep appreciation for life 's simple and finer pleasures, which he shared generously with those around him.
A dedicated member of his community, Joe was a benefactor of the Michael Victor II Art Library, a lifelong supporter of the Boys and Girls Club, and proud of his Jewish heritage as a member of Temple B 'rith Shalom.
Joe loved his family deeply and cherished the joy they brought to his life. With his first wife, Diana (née Levick), he welcomed daughters Ann Michele Victor and Julie Dee Victor. Later, with his second wife, Roanna (née Partlow), he had daughter Lauren Chanel Victor (husband, Scott Beetley) and son Joseph Winston "JW" Victor (wife, Chris Wang). His grandchildren-Henry (9), Alex (7), Noah (5), and Olive (4)-were a source of immense pride and happiness in his later years.
Joe was predeceased by his parents, Benjamin and Devera (Rotman) Victor, and his brother, Michael. He will be remembered as a loyal friend, a loving father and grandfather, and a masterful storyteller whose unique humor and warmth lit up every room.
Joe 's funeral will be held at 11 AM on Friday, January 31, 2025, at Temple B 'rith Shalom in Springfield, IL followed by a private burial.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in his memory to the Springfield Boys and Girls Club, 300 S. 15th St., Springfield, IL 62703 or a charity of your choice.
May his soul rest in peace. And may it be forever Post Time.
Condolences for the family may be left at www.markwellfuneralhome.com
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