Former Crystal Lake City Manager Joe Misurelli Dies At 65

CRYSTAL LAKE, IL — The communities of Crystal Lake and Genoa are mourning former Crystal Lake City Manager Joseph Misurelli, who died at his home in Bull Valley on Saturday. Misurelli also worked in city administration in Genoa after spending more than 20 years in the Crystal Lake city manager's office.

Genoa Mayor Mark Vicary paid tribute to Misurelli on Christmas.

"It is with a heavy heart, deepest sadness and profound shock that I must share the sad news of the passing of our friend and colleague Joe Misurelli Sr," Vicary said on Facebook. "Joe touched the hearts and souls of the people who have had the pleasure of working with him through the years. He was a visionary as an administrator and was always working hard to make Genoa a better place. Genoa was truly fortunate to have had Joe. We are without words."

Misurelli was named Crystal Lake city manager in 1979, according to the DeKalb Daily Chronicle, and held the position until he retired in 2002. During his tenure, Crystal Lake grew from a population of 18,000 to more than 40,000.

He served as economic development coordinator in Genoa before being named the city's administrative consultant.

“I considered him my wingman, “ Vicary told the Chronicle. “He always knew the answer.”