Joseph Malcom Aronstam

Joseph Malcolm Aronstam

June 11th 1931-July 25th 2026

Joseph Malcolm Aronstam, beloved husband, father, teacher, veteran, and friend, passed away after a life marked by resilience, humor, service, and a deep love for family and community.

Joe was born in Boston, Massachusetts, on June 11, 1931, to Dr. M. M. Aronstam and Rose D. Sheffer.

He attended Boston Latin School, where he excelled in Spanish, Latin, French, and athletics. He attended Tufts University before he was drafted in the Army. He served as an Airborne Ranger in the Korean War. After his military service he transferred to the University of Illinois in Champaign.

While a senior at the University of Illinois, Joe met the love of his life, Toby Ann Greenman. They married in Boston Massachusetts in 1956 and moved to Chicago the following year to begin their life together.

Joe was a devoted father to his children, Kirk Aronstam (Nancy Velez) and Kathy Aronstam (Gary Mason). His love of languages and his desire to serve others led him to pursue a career in the Diplomatic Corps. Facing the systemic discrimination of the era, he instead built a successful career in sales.

Following retirement, Joe discovered one of his greatest joys when he became a substitute teacher at New Trier High School. He treasured his time with the students, who adored him and affectionately called him “The Colonel”.

He also loved and cherished his many dogs and grand-dogs who brought him immeasurable joy.

A lifelong sports enthusiast, Joe remained a beloved and devoted Chicago Cubs, Bears, Bulls and fighting Illini fan for seventy five years.

Joe was known for his quick wit, sense of humor and ability to find laughter in everyday life. Even while facing numerous health challenges, he met each with remarkable grace, courage, and a smile.

His family is deeply grateful to his devoted caregivers, Renise and Lolo for the tender, loving care they provided.

Joe will be remembered with great love by his family, friends, former students, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His warmth, humor, curiosity, and generous spirit will live on in the many lives he touched.

A memorial service will be held at Fort Sheridan National Cemetery on August 27th at 1p.m. A celebration of life at 3 p.m -5p.m. will follow at Mensch’s Deli in Glencoe, Illinois