Joseph W. Kaiser, Jr.

Joseph William Kaiser Jr., aged 81, of Upper Arlington passed away on March 15, 2025 surrounded by family after a life filled with love and dedication to family, friends and red cars. 

He was born March 1, 1944 in Jolliet, IL. He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years Audrey (Weilbacher), his children Todd Kaiser and Tiffany Kaiser (Mark Dobrozsi), grandsons Bauer and Milo Dobrozsi, bonus children Julie Peoples (Cornwell), Adam Bennett and their families and a loving extended family including 11 nephews, 7 nieces, 23 great-nephews, 19 great-nieces and their families.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Eilleen, his in-laws Milton and Eleanora Weilbacher, sister Patricia Wagner, brother Anton Kaiser, brother-in-laws Frank Gregorio and Kenneth Weilbacher, niece Maribeth Wagner and great nephew Nathan Weilbacher. 

Joe grew up in Greenville KY, graduated from Greenville High School and Southern Illinois University.  He obtained his CLU and worked for General American Life in group sales and eventually was able to fulfill his dream to set up his own distribution business. This allowed him the flexibility to participate and attend all activities involving his children that he loved dearly. 

Time with family was cherished, both in Ohio and his second home in Millstadt, IL. He enjoyed memorable holiday gatherings and decades of special memories with the extended Kaiser, Weilbacher and Dobrozsi families. His cherished friendship, especially his favorite 4-legged Toby and his regular breakfast hangout with Mr. Frank and the guys.   He loved supporting his community, favorite charities, the Buckeyes and anything and everything related to his 2 grandsons. 

Throughout his life Joe found great fulfillment in anything to do with cars and auto racing (Formula One and IndyCar).  He enjoyed traveling anywhere to see a race, with some of his favorites being Mid-Ohio, Indy, Talladega and Montreal,  but most importantly to be able to share these experiences with his kids and grandsons.  In his later years he loved being able to continue his passion through his car collection and special friendship formed with the NJB crew. 

Joe considered life a blessing. He was grateful for the love and life he shared with Audrey, for the family he adored, and for the many friendships and interests that enriched his life. 

The family will receive friends:

Friday, March 21, 2025. Visitation 4-7pm at Egan Ryan Funeral Home, 4661 Kenny Road, Columbus OH 43220                                

Saturday, March 22, 2025. Funeral mass at 10:00am at St. Agatha Church, 1860 Northam Road, Upper Arlington OH 43221

Saturday, March 22, 2025. Checkered Flag Party at Carsonies, 1725 W Lane Ave., Columbus OH at 12:00.

Wearing Joe’s favorite color red to any and all events is encouraged (racing and sport team apparel welcomed). A private burial will be held in Millstadt, IL at a later date. If desired, donations may be in support of Joe’s first job and favorite charity The Little Sisters of the Poor.  

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