It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Jose Oswald on May 24, 2026 in Elgin, IL. Born February 16, 1932 in Buenos Aires, Argentina to Josef and Katharina (née Bulitsch) Oswald, Jose was a man of great determination, tenacity, and intelligence. Through his journey of 94 years, he touched many lives with his wisdom, generosity, and an unwavering spirit of perseverance.

Among the many milestones of his well-lived life, Jose marked 1955 with immense pride – the year he embarked on his future by emigrating to the United States. He first served in the United States Army, then pursued his entrepreneurial dreams by establishing a successful tool and die business in Chicago. He went on to be a creative technological innovator in his field.

Jose was a devoted husband and father, and had many lifelong passionate interests, including music, literature, languages, art, history, and the natural world.

He will be greatly missed and forever remembered.

Jose is survived by his wife of 69 years, Katharina; his children, Graciela (Bradley) Thalacker, Caroline (Douglas Rockar) Oswald, Irene Oswald, and Joseph (Kris) Oswald; his sisters, Berta Stuermer and Ingrid Oswald; his grandchildren, Josef (Peyten) Oswald and Alicia Oswald; step-grandchildren, Anthony (Ashley) Hernandez and Dominic Hernandez; step-great-grandchild, Lily Hernandez; and many nieces and nephews.

A memorial visitation will be held from 10:30am until funeral service at 1:00pm, Thursday, June 4, 2026, at Symonds-Madison Funeral Home, 305 Park Street, Elgin, IL 60120. Fr. Dario Endiape will be officiating.

Interment with military honors to follow at Bluff City Cemetery, 945 Bluff City Boulevard, Elgin, IL 60120.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Jose’s name to the American Kidney Fund.

Final arrangements entrusted to Symonds-Madison Funeral Home. For more information, call 847-741-1128.