Gregory G. Spiess
Mar 8, 1949 — Aug 5, 2026
August 9, 2026 – 6:00pm cst
Gregory G. Spiess, age 77, of Joliet, IL, passed away peacefully in the presence of family on August 5, 2026, following an extended illness. Greg was born on March 8, 1949, in Blue Island Illinois to Ardele (Brethauer) and Gordon Spiess. Greg was raised in the close-knit community of Mokena amidst many relatives and friends and enjoyed sports and outdoors activities during his school years. He received two bachelor’s degrees at Winona State University and Southern Illinois University.
Greg’s lifelong interest in archaeology and antiques led him to establish his Architectural Antiques business in Joliet of almost 50 years. Over these years he bought and sold, restored and repaired stained glass windows, antique furniture, church furnishing and many unusual items. A talented staff helped him with these business successes. In particular, Greg was known for backbars, many of which are still at bars and restaurants in the area and throughout the country.
Greg could often be found at local auctions or estate sales and traveling the Midwest and beyond in search of antique and vintage items to add to his inventory. His business clients even included some celebrities; and he is remembered for appearing on an episode of American Pickers. Greg was aided in his business by his brother Jerry, son Carl, and canine companions Sophie, Cheyenne, and Maya.
Greg’s life came complete when he welcomed his son Carl.
In recent months Greg faced a difficult health journey but found support from his wife Sharon and other family members. The family is deeply grateful for the care he received at Silver Cross Hospital and Medical Group and Alden Estates.
Greg was preceded in death by his father Gordon (1991) mother Ardele (Brethauer) Spiess Burke (2014) paternal grandparents Harold and Edna (Schmuhl) Spiess and maternal grandparents Emil and Anna (Rothenburger) Brethauer.
Greg is survived by his wife Sharon (Merwin), son Carl, brother Jerry, sister Nancy (George) Mateja, cousins Judi (Howard) Ferrari and David (Adele) Bausor, numerous nieces and nephews, including Matt (Draya) Mateja and Mike Mateja, and sisters and brother in-law in the Merwin family. He will also be fondly remembered by many in the antique and vintage community, whose friendships he enjoyed over the years.
Visitation, Sunday, August 9, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. until time of Chapel Service at 6:00 p.m. at Vandenberg Funeral Home, 19604 S. Wolf Rd. Mokena, IL 60448. Interment will be Private. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Joliet Area Historical Museum. For more information (708) 479-1210 or www.vandenbergfuneralhome.com
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