Joseph M. Oleksak

Herkimer - Joseph M. Oleksak, 79, of Herkimer passed away peacefully on Thursday June 3, 2021 at St. Elizabeth's Medical Center, Utica, NY with his devoted family by his side.

He was born July 26, 1941 in Jessup, PA, the son of the late Michael and Stella (Jollo) Oleksak and was a graduate of St. Lucy's Catholic School in Syracuse.

Mr. Oleksak was a United States Navy veteran, serving on the USS Charles H. Roan. He was honorably discharged with the rank of Radarman Second Class.

 Joe worked with his brother after he returned from the military. He worked at Service Master for several years. He also worked at Masonic Home, where he met the love of his life, Grace. He later returned to Service Master and retired with the position of Supervisor.

On July 28, 2001 Joe, was united in marriage to Grace Crossett in Lisbon, NY.

Joe's life was centered around his loved ones. His happiest of times was when he was surrounded by his loving and devoted family. A talented man, Joe enjoyed refinishing furniture, interior painting and had the skill to swirl texture a ceiling. He also was an excellent cook and enjoyed cooking for his family.

Survivors include his loving wife of 20 years, Grace; his children, Joseph Oleksak, Jr. and Stephanie Urban and their mother, Barbara Pearson; his grandchildren, Gina Oleksak, Katherine Oleksak, Jeffrey Oleksak and Jeanette Oleksak; a sister, Lorraine VanVranken; sister-in-law, Joyce Oleksak; in-laws, Ken and Bernice Crossett, Carol Mayo and Barbara Brooks; step-children, Roy Kane, Jesse Kane, Karen Mower, Linda Buhr and Paula Ward; and several step grandchildren and great grandchildren who will be always remembered as their beloved Papa Joe. He is also survived by several special nieces and nephews.

He was pre-deceased by his parents; a son, Jeffrey Oleksak, Sr.; grandson, Ryan Oleksak; brother, Mike Oleksak; sisters, Ruth (George) Wilkens and Regina (John) Kurtz; sister-in-law, Diane Rodden and a grandson-in-law, Jason Norfolk.

The family will be receiving relatives and friends on Thursday June 10, 2021 at the Vincent A. Enea Funeral Service, (next to NBT Bank), 527 E. Albany St., Herkimer, NY 315-866-1500, from 11:00 until 12:00 noon. At 12:00 noon a memorial service will take place at the funeral home chapel with Father Mark Cunningham, officiating. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery, Herkimer, with full military honors accorded. In lieu of lowers, please make all memorial contribution to Disabled American Veteran's Charity. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.