Joseph Stephen Mihina
Of Arlington Heights

Joseph Stephen Mihina, age 91, of Arlington Heights, passed away on August 19, 2009 at the Lutheran Home and Services.

Joe was born on May 4, 1918 in New York City, the son of Joseph and Skolastika Mihina. In 1938 he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from New York University. He was drafted into the U.S. Navy in 1943 and finished his tour at the end of World War Il on Okinawa with the 146th Seabees. He then attended Michigan State University, earning a Master’s degree in Physical Chemistry in 1948 and a PhD in Organic Chemistry in 1950. While at Michigan State he married Bettye Reece in 1949 and raised two children with her in Skokie, Illinois.

He was hired at G. D. Searle and Co., in Skokie, in 1951 as a research chemist. He later managed the Chemical Manufacturing department, retiring from Searle in 1984. During his career Joe was awarded three patents, and was published in professional journals several times. He was a member of numerous professional organizations, including 64 years as a member of the American Chemical Society (ACS).

Throughout his life, Joe enjoyed doing volunteer work. He volunteered at WTTW Channel 11 for 25 years, the Chicago Botanic Garden for 15 years, and was a Boy Scout leader for more than 10 years. Joe also did volunteer work for AARP, local public libraries, was a judge at numerous science fairs, and assisted at the annual National ACS Chemistry Day for many years.

Joe was a voracious reader, particularly enjoying science fiction and history. Joe also had a lifelong love of music, and was a big sports fan and participant. He took great pleasure in the theater, and was an on-stage and off-stage member of the Searle Players and the Glencoe Players. Joe also enjoyed botany, cultivating an extensive wild flower garden.

Joe is survived by his wife of 59 years, Bettye Mihina, daughter Karen (George) Clifford, and son Steve Mihina.
Visitation Friday, August 28, 2009 from 10 am until time of service at 11 am at St. John the Beloved Chapel at the Lutheran Home, 800 W. Oakton, Arlington Heights, IL 60004. Interment private.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Luther Village Spiritual Enrichment Foundation, 1250 Village Dr., Arlington Heights, IL 60004 or The Lutheran Home, 800 W. Oakton, Arlington Heights, IL 60004.

Glueckert Funeral Home

(847) 253-0168

1520 North Arlington Heights

Road Arlington Heights, IL 60004