On Thursday, the Inland Real Estate Group of Companies, Inc. announced the passing of their Cofounder G. Joseph Cosenza at the age of 81 on December 25th, 2024.
Inland Chairman and co-founder Robert H. Baum expressed his sadness over losing a dear friend and trusted partner in Joe, who was known for his exceptional deal-making skills in commercial real estate. He also praised Joe’s loyalty and passion for acquiring real estate that would benefit Inland and its investors.
Tony Chereso, CEO and President of Inland as well as a board member, remembered Joe as an unwavering source of inspiration who worked tirelessly for the company’s success. Along with other founders Daniel L.Goodwin (late), Robert D.Parks,and Baum himself – all former school teachers -Joe helped transform alternative real estate marketplace into what it is today.
Following their succession plan , Matthew Ticeand Mark Cosenza are currently leading acquisition operations at Inland.
Born in Chicago ,Joe received his BA from Northeastern Illinois University before going on to earn an MS from Northern Illinois University . Before joining forces with Goodwin,Parks,and Baum to form inland backin1968,Joe taught at LaGrange School District(1967-68)and servedas Assistant Principal/teacherat Wheeling School District(1968-72). As headof acquisitionsforInlandsinceits inception,Cosenzahas been responsibleforover $55 billion worthofcommercial realestatepurchases through consultation or negotiation .
In recognitionofhis contributions,the Lifetime Achievement Awardwas presentedtoCosenzaby Connect CREin June2024.”He will always be rememberedas aleaderwho leftan indeliblemarkonthe commercialrealestateindustry,” said Connect Media CEO DanielCenicerosaboutJoe’s legacy .
Visitationwillbe heldonThursdayJanuary2ndfrom3:00 pmto8:00 pmatAdams-Winterfield&SullivanFuneral HomeinDowners Grove,IL.Funeralserviceswillbe heldonFridayJanuary3rdatSt.Mary’sofGostynCatholicChurchinDownersGrove,IL. The exact time of the service is yet to be determined.
