Joseph Plauché

Joseph Byron Plauché, Jr., known to many as "Joe" or "Joey", and to his grandchildren as "Grandpère", passed away on April 18, 2026, at the age of 82 in his Evanston home. Born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to Joseph Byron Plauché, Sr., a banker, and Mildred Alice (Bordelon) Plauché, a teacher, Joe developed an early respect for numbers and knowledge that would shape the rest of his life. He graduated from Cathedral High School (Lafayette, Louisiana) and went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Louisiana State University in 1965. Both deepened his interests in how the world works—from philosophy and physics to literature and the markets. In 1966, Joe moved to Chicago and began a job at the First National Bank of Chicago, where he met and worked side by side with Mary Macellaio, the first woman hired in the bond department. Sharing a love of music, sports, and good jokes, Joe and Mary both had the good sense to recognize a remarkable person when they met one. They married soon after and spent nearly 60 years together, building a partnership defined by good humor and steadfast devotion. Joe worked as a financial manager and trader in the bond, futures, and currency markets, with roles at First National Bank of Chicago, ACLI, and Nuveen. He approached his career the same way he approached most things: seriously, thoughtfully, and with deep curiosity. He was an analyst not just by profession but also by temperament—always asking questions, always studying, and always reading. Books were Joe’s constant companion, and he maintained a lifelong interest in French language and literature, as well, combining his intellect with his passion to connect with his family roots. Joe was conscientious, intellectual, and, at times, unmistakably stubborn—a quality that served him well in markets, debates, and book club discussions. Those who knew him best understood that his persistence was simply another expression of how deeply he cared and how firmly he held to his principles. Known as a keen listener and engaging conversationalist, Joe also had a great sense of humor that surfaced at just the right moments. In fact, he once placed second in the Jambalaya Jamboree Comedian competition—a credential he did not bring up often, but one the family feels deserves official recognition. Joe also liked to think of himself as a sailor, though he spent less time on the open water than he might have liked. This interest, like his love of books, reflected a quiet appreciation for adventure and possibility. Above all, he was a caring and loving husband, father, and grandfather, a mentor and friend to many, and someone who believed deeply in the value of the arts and sciences, both of which he supported generously. Joe is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Macellaio Plauché; his children, Stephen T. (Ningsih) Plauché and Mimi Plauché; and his grandchildren, Marcus, Audrey, and Erica Plauché, who will always remember their Grandpère and the deep interest he took in their lives. He is also survived by his siblings, Adrienne Aronstein and Stephen A. (Pattie) Plauché, and siblings-in-law James (Cathy) Macellaio, Eleanor “Tuni” Sheils, Rita Macellaio, and Linda Miller Macellaio, as well as his many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brothers-in-law, Jay Aronstein, Gerald Macellaio, Joseph Macellaio, and Thomas Sheils. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in Joe’s memory to ALS United, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, or the Chicago International Film Festival—three organizations that reflect his commitment to and support of science, music, and the arts. Joe lived a life of quiet dedication and steady love. He will be missed, remembered, and—by those who knew him best—occasionally quoted. Arrangements by Inclusive Funeral Care, 773-318-1305 or www.InclusiveFuneralCare.com.

Joseph Plauché

June 10, 1943 - April 18, 2026