Real Estate Group Inland Mourns Loss of Co-Founder G. Joseph Cosenza
The Inland Real Estate Group of Companies, Inc. (“Inland”) announces with deep sorrow the passing of G. Joseph Cosenza, co-founder, Director, Vice Chairman, and President of Inland Real Estate Acquisitions, LLC. Mr. Cosenza, a pioneering figure in the commercial real estate industry, passed away on December 25, 2024, at the age of 81.
“Joe was a legendary dealmaker in the commercial real estate industry, a trusted and valued partner, and a dear friend,” said Robert H. Baum, Inland Chairman, co-founder, and General Counsel. “We will miss his enduring loyalty, high energy, and passion, particularly when he was on the acquisition front, fighting to acquire real estate on the best terms for Inland and our investors. In the office, Joe’s love, kindness, and humor were always present, leaving an indelible mark on everyone at Inland. On behalf of the Inland Board and over 1,400 employees across the country, our thoughts and prayers are with the Cosenza family, and we extend our deepest sympathies during this difficult time.”
“Joe was an unwavering source of inspiration for us all,” said Tony Chereso, Inland CEO, President, and Board member. “He worked tirelessly on behalf of Inland and our investors. We will forever be grateful for his leadership and countless contributions to Inland’s success. Joe was a commercial real estate icon and a legendary dealmaker who, along with the other Inland founders, helped transform the alternative real estate marketplace.”
Inland’s succession plan is in place, with the company’s acquisition operations now being jointly led by Matthew Tice and Mark Cosenza, who will continue the legacy built by Mr. Cosenza over the past five decades.
A Legacy of Leadership and Impact
Born and raised in Chicago, Mr. Cosenza earned his Bachelor’s degree from Northeastern Illinois University and his Master’s from Northern Illinois University. From 1967 to 1968, he taught at LaGrange School District before transitioning to an administrative role as Assistant Principal and teacher in the Wheeling School District from 1968 to 1972. During his time at Northeastern, Mr. Cosenza met Daniel L. Goodwin, who would become a lifelong friend and one of the co-founders of Inland, along with Robert D. Parks, Mr. Baum, and Joe. Together, these visionaries laid the foundation for Inland in 1968, growing it into one of the nation’s largest commercial real estate and finance organizations.
As head of acquisitions for Inland, Mr. Cosenza was instrumental in overseeing or negotiating the purchase of more than $55 billion in commercial real estate across the United States. His leadership in acquisitions was key to Inland’s growth, as he navigated complex transactions and built lasting relationships with investors, stakeholders, and partners.
A licensed real estate broker since Inland’s inception, Mr. Cosenza remained active in several real estate associations throughout his career. He was a proud member of the National Association of REALTORS®, the Illinois Association of REALTORS®, and the Chicago Association of REALTORS®. His involvement in the banking and financial sectors also left a lasting impact. Mr. Cosenza served as Chairman of the Board of American National Bank of DuPage and was a part-owner of American National Bank of DuPage and Burbank State Bank. Additionally, he held positions on the Board of Directors of Continental Bank of Oakbrook Terrace and was a past Chairman and Director of Inland Bank & Trust, as well as a Director of Inland Bancorp, Inc.
Recognition and Awards
Throughout his illustrious career, Mr. Cosenza received numerous honors in recognition of his significant contributions to the commercial real estate industry. Among his accolades were inductions into the Chicago Association of REALTORS® Hall of Fame and Lifetime Achievement Awards from the Illinois Real Estate Journals and CRE Connect industry publications. These awards reflect the profound influence he had on shaping the commercial real estate landscape.
Services and Memorial Information
Visitation for Mr. Cosenza will be held on Thursday, January 2, 2025, from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Adams-Winterfield & Sullivan Funeral Home, 4343 Main Street, Downers Grove, Illinois. A funeral service will take place on Friday, January 3, 2025, at St. Mary’s of Gostyn Catholic Church, 445 Prairie Avenue, Downers Grove, Illinois. The exact time of the service is still pending.
About Inland Real Estate Group of Companies, Inc.
Inland is one of the nation’s largest and most successful commercial real estate and finance groups. Headquartered in Oak Brook, Illinois, Inland is composed of a number of independent entities that share common ownership or have been managed by Inland’s subsidiaries. For more than 50 years, Inland has been creating, developing, and supporting member companies that provide real estate-related investment products and commercial real estate services for both third parties and Inland member companies.
Mr. Cosenza’s passing marks the end of an era for Inland, but his legacy will continue to guide the company as it builds upon his vision and contributions to the commercial real estate industry. His leadership, commitment, and passion for the business will forever be remembered by those whose lives he touched.
