Daniel "Dan" P. Prieboy

It is with immense sadness that we announce the sudden and heartbreaking loss of Daniel (Dan) Prieboy on Friday, June 27th, 2025.

Dan is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Rebecca (Jovanovich) Prieboy, with whom he fell in love at just 14 years old. Their bond grew into a beautiful marriage and remained a steady foundation through the life they built together while raising their greatest accomplishments in life; their three sons: Eliya (wife Abriya), Theodore (fiancé Kenna), and Matthew. He is also survived by his siblings Steve (Candie), Donald (Terry), John (Marsha), Mark (Kathy), Chrissy (Donnie), as well as his in-laws Darlene and Radovan “Chief” Jovanovich, Alex (Sam), Chrissy (Craig). He was an adored “Uncle Dan” to his many nieces and nephews. Dan was preceded in death by his mother and father John (Mibs) and Sylvia Prieboy, sister Lori Blish, and brother-in-law Pat Quigley.

Born on January 2, 1965, in Joliet, IL, Dan graduated from Joliet Central High School in 1983 and went on to attend, as well as graduate from University of Saint Francis in 1987. Growing up in a competitive family inspired his love of sports. Dan was an athlete in all senses of the word and willing to share his knowledge and expertise, whether on a court, course, or in a backyard with anyone who was willing to take him on. He loved coaching his sons throughout their young years of playing organized sports and also showing his skills- of which there were many. Dan’s deep love for the St. George Serbian Orthodox Church shaped the last 33 years of his life. He converted to the faith during this time and continued to grow spiritually through the parish community. As a devoted member and former board member,

Dan was a constant presence at St. George. He was always ready to lend a hand, share his talents, and fix whatever needed attention on any given Sunday. His faith was something he lived fully, with quiet strength and steady commitment.

 All who knew him, loved him instantly. His infectious personality and ability to walk into a silent room and bring it alive with laughter in seconds was truly a gift. He was always genuinely excited for others’ “wins” in life. And above all to choose happiness over hardship. He taught us that life doesn’t always have to be serious, to not sweat the small stuff, and appreciate what you have. It would be impossible to list all of the memories and ways Dan positively influenced others. Dan’s vibrant spirit, quick wit, and larger-than-life presence left a mark on everyone who knew him. His unexpected departure leaves an immense void in the lives of all who knew and loved him- he lived loudly, loved deeply, and will never be forgotten.

He lived by one of his favorite quotes “It’s nice to be important but it’s more important to be nice” and these words passed on from him will surely live on through his wife, three boys and all who knew and loved him.

A celebration of Daniel's life will begin with visitation to be Tuesday, July 1, 2025 from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Tezak’s Funeral Home, 1211 Plainfield Rd Joliet, IL. with Pomen service beginning at 7:00 p.m.

Dan will lie in state from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM on July 2, 2025 at Saint George Serbian Orthodox, 300 Stryker Ave, Joliet, IL with funeral services beginning at 11:30 AM. Burial services will follow at Woodlawn Memorial Park in Joliet, IL. Contributions to the family are welcome and will be used for a future remembrance of Dan.