Joshua Atz

Joshua Evin Atz, 43, of South Beloit, IL passed away peacefully in the arms of his loving wife while surrounded by several beloved friends and family members on January 28, 2025 at UW Hospital in Madison, WI. Josh fought a difficult battle with stomach cancer, but clung to the hope of complete renewal and healing in his Savior Jesus Christ. Josh knew if his body was not healed on this earth that he would soon find total healing after death. He continued to love and encourage others up until his very last moments, including all those who took care of him at UW. Josh spent two three-week stays in the hospital, and was blessed to have countless visits from those he loved.

Josh was born on October 5, 1981 in Rockford, IL. He was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Tim and Lori (Barker) Atz. He grew up with his older brother, Aaron, along with numerous cousins near his age. From childhood on, he was an integral part of a close knit community consisting of school mates, neighbors, family, friends, and his church family. Josh overcame several health hurdles in his life, to which he gave God the glory and thanksgiving for carrying him through. He had heart surgery as a young child. When Josh was 17, he received the gift of life when his father donated a kidney to him on May 12, 1999. In 2000, he graduated from Hononegah High School and began his adult life a healthy, happy man.

Josh met his wife, Charlene D. Atz (Bergener), at Hope Church in Roscoe, IL while they were both teenagers. A close friendship bloomed into love, and they married in Hope Church on March 31, 2007. In 2010, Josh and Charlene welcomed their son, Elliot. The family has countless treasured memories they will forever hold close to their hearts. Josh was the absolute most selfless husband and father. Josh bettered his community working at various employers over the years. In his more recent years, he performed maintenance and grounds keeping from 2010 to 2016 for the Belvidere School District. He then worked for Rockton Township from 2016 to 2025, eventually becoming foreman. He loved working outdoors. Josh was a dedicated Member of Hope Church of Roscoe, IL, and served there for over 30 years. He enjoyed mountain biking, hiking, nature photography, softball, drumming, was passionate about music and spending time outdoors, and enjoyed going on adventures with friends. His humor was contagious, and he was ready to share a smile and a goofy joke at all times. He most loved to invest in time with people and made great efforts to be a true friend to all. He was dedicated to his extended and immediate family. Few community members were more beloved than Josh, and a friendlier man would be hard to find.

Josh had a faith in Jesus Christ from which the fruit of his life poured out. He was kind, a helper, constantly sought out to gather with others, and was a devoted friend. He loved the Lord and served Him in the way he lived his life and treated others. Josh was the most treasured husband and father, son, brother, and friend.

Survivors include his wife Charlene, son Elliot, parents Tim and Lori, brother Aaron (Nicole) Atz, grandma Carol Barker, nephew Jaden Atz, niece Mekenzie Atz, and several aunts, uncles and cousins. Predeceased by his paternal grandparents Alvin and Elva Atz and maternal grandpa, Charlie Barker. Josh is also survived by an army of friends, neighbors, church family, co-workers, and healthcare workers who will miss him dearly.

A celebratory funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, February 7, 2025 at Hope Church 5656 Elevator Rd Roscoe, IL 61073. Cremation Rites to be Accorded. A visitation will be held from 9:00 to 10:50 am at the church preceding the funeral.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Hope Church for the Benevolence Fund at Hope 5656 Elevator Road Roscoe, IL 61073