August 23, 1944 – April 13, 2024

M. Joseph “Joe” Chusid, MD died peacefully at home on April 13, 2024 at the age of 79. Beloved husband of Julie for 51 years. Cherished father to Karen (Richard) Waple and Paul (Amy) Chusid. Dear brother to Joanna Chusid of Ashburn, VA. Proud grandfather to Miles, Thomas, and Michael. Preceded in death by his loving parents Anna Kathryn and Joseph George Chusid.

Joe graduated from Yale University cum laude with a BA in Psychology in 1966. He then attended Yale Medical School, where he earned his Doctor of Medicine Degree in 1970 and was an elected member of Yale’s chapter of the National Medical Honor Fraternity, Alpha Omega Alpha.

Following residency at Yale-New Haven Hospital, Joe completed a Clinical Associate Fellowship at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, Maryland. His position as Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Public Health Service fulfilled his Vietnam War service commitment. After his service, he held a fellowship in infectious disease at Harvard’s Beth Israel Hospital and Boston Children’s Medical Center.

Joe was recruited to join the faculty of the Medical College of Wisconsin in 1976. There he quickly rose through the ranks to tenured Full Professorship and served, among other things, as Chief of Pediatric Infectious Diseases and Vice-Chair of Pediatrics. He worked at Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin in Milwaukee for 44 years, where he treated thousands of patients, served on multiple committees, and was Chief of Staff for a period of time. He was a prolific published author and researcher, was Board-certified in three distinct fields, and received numerous accolades, including MCW’s Distinguished Service Award. Of the accolades he received, he was always proudest of his teaching awards. Joe retired in 2020.

Joe loved sports, was a varsity athlete in track and soccer at Wantagh High School, and earned his varsity track letter at Yale as a high jumper. He coached youth soccer for many of his children’s teams and tried never to miss any of their games, tennis matches or speedskating meets. More recently he enjoyed cheering on his grandchildren in soccer, golf, and music. He was also an avid ham radio operator with an Amateur Radio Extra Class license, whose car license plates always proudly proclaimed his call sign, “AK9Z”. He and his wife Julie also became members of Elmbrook Church.

Joe was an avid fisherman and Packer, Brewer, Badger, and Bulldog fan. He treasured his summers with family and friends at his cabin in the Northwoods.

The family wishes to thank the ALS Team at Froedtert Hospital, Brighton Home Hospice and Synergy Home Care for their excellent care at the end of his life.

Visitation will be held at Krause Funeral Home, 21600 West Capitol Drive, Brookfield, Wisconsin from 1:30 PM to 3:15 PM. Service at 3:30 PM.

In lieu of flowers please make contributions to the ALS Association or scan QR code below.