Joel Ayala

1928-2023

Joel Ayala, 95, of Pleasant Prairie passed away on July 5, 2023, surrounded by his loving family. Joel was born on April 26, 1928, in Libertyville, IL, the son of the late Guadalupe and Maria (Bariosz) Ayala. He was educated in the schools of Libertyville. After high school, Joel enlisted into the US. Army in 1946 and was honorably discharged earning a World War II Victory Medal and Army of Occupation  Medal Japan. After his Army service, Joel worked for Deep Freeze in North Chicago where he met the love of his life, Alyce Klema Ludlow. Joel and Alyce married on March 6, 1954 in Woodstock, IL. Joel eventually was employed by OMC/Johnson Motors for many years until he retired. He worked his way up from a factory worker to a plant foreman which he retired from in 1987. Joel earned a degree from Lake Forest School of Management.

Joel was a wonderful husband to his wife of 61 years until her death April 5, 2015. He was also a much loved father and role model to his children. He was hardworking and always made sure his family was provided for. He enjoyed woodworking, taking meticulous care of his lawn, cheering for the Chicago Bears, Green Bay Packers, and the Chicago Cubs but most of all he loved spending time with his friends and family, especially with his grandchildren.

Survivors include his step-sons Robert (Karen) Ludlow of Libertyville, IL and Ronnie Ludlow of Kenosha, daughters, Mary Jo (Dennis) Leveque of Elkhorn, Debi Bonnes of Pleasant Prairie; sibling, Tess Dela Pena of Baraboo; grandchildren, Scott Ludlow of TX, Allisen (Scott) Ludlow MacRitchie of UT, Kimmy Jo Ludlow of VA, Todd (Jenny) Ludlow of IL, TJ (Becky) Leveque of WI, Andrew Leveque of WI, Jennifer Bonnes of WI, Brittany (Steve Kramer) Bonnes of WI and Daniel Bonnes Jr. of WI; also included are many great-grandchildren and a great-great grandchild. Joel was preceded in death by his parents, wife Alyce, brothers, Rueben and Jernal, his sister Connie, and son-in-law Daniel Bonnes.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Kenosha Funeral Services & Crematory
8226-Sheridan Rd.
Kenosha, WI 53143
(262) 652-1943