Dr. Joseph M. Saban

Dr. Joseph Matthew Saban, 70, of Lakewood, was born December 31, 1946 in South Elgin to Joseph and Dragica (nee Stilinovic) Saban. He passed away peacefully on Friday, September 29, 2017 at his home in Lakewood.

Joe began his career in education, teaching science to junior high and then high school students.  After several years of teaching, he transitioned to Asst. Superintendent in charge of finance at District 155 in Crystal Lake.  In 1993, Joe became Superintendent of Schools for the district during which time he earned a Doctorate of Education.  During his tenure, he facilitated the building of Prairie Ridge High School.  After retiring from District 155 in 2002 he became a Professor at Northern Illinois University, training masters and doctoral students in educational leadership.

Joe had a favorite saying; he believed in “doing what’s right for kids”.  He lived his life that way, both for the children of his community and for his family.  Joe liked nothing better than to spend time with his children and grandchildren.  Spending time on the beach, walking along a trail in a national forest or sitting with a grandchild nestled in his lap were among his favorite moments. Joe was known for his quick wit and never missed an opportunity to make a moment fun.  His home was always filled of laughter.

He is survived by his wife, Bonnie (nee Miller) Saban; his children, Matt (Julie) Saban, Tom Saban, Julia Saban, Jason (Tara) Strait, and Matt (Laura) Strait; his grandchildren, Madelyn and Boedi Newsom, Genevieve and Warren Strait, and Barret and Tillie Strait; his brother, John (Nicole) Saban; his sisters-in-law, Colleen (Ron) Mann and Tracy Miller; and twenty-two nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his siblings, Steve (Delores) Saban, and Katherine Saban; and his parents.

A memorial visitation will be held from 3pm until time of memorial service at 7pm, Thursday, October 5, 2017 at Davenport Family Funeral Home, 419 E. Terra Cotta Ave., Crystal Lake.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to the Sierra Club, National Parks Conservation Association or the World Wildlife Federation.

*Please note that although we have a large parking lot, due to crowd size, you may need to find parking in one of several overflow lots, located across the street at Knaack, or in the office complex immediately west of the funeral home. If you are unsure of parking, please see one of the funeral attendants for further direction.*