Joseph John Waselak

With deep sadness, we announce the passing of Joe Waselak, who was called home to be with the Lord at the age of 96 on February 6, 2025 surrounded by love and light. Joseph John Waselak, Jr. was born on October 22, 1928 in NE Minneapolis, MN to Joseph and Martha (Pelarski) Waselak. The youngest of three children, Joe grew up with two older sisters who lovingly spoiled him. Joe graduated from Minneapolis Vocational Tech in 1947 and shortly after, while sitting on a stool at Rabatin's Ice Cream Bar, saw Barbara Jean Hanson walk in. Whether it was her adorable navy peacoat or beautiful smile (or both), it was love at first sight. They married on November 11, 1950 (Barb's 20th birthday) and shortly after, in 1951, Joe was drafted into the military and they headed to Fort Campbell, KY. The family returned home to Minneapolis in 1953 and both their family and Joe's innate work ethic continued to grow, often working 2-3 jobs at a time. He spent the majority of his early career with the U.S. Postal Service and in 1969, he became a proud owner of Leon's Supper Club in Columbia Heights. When Leon's closed in 1994, Joe stayed busy with jobs into his 90s as a golf course ranger, apartment manager, and more. Outside of his career, Joe was a man of great faith, integrity, and dedication. He was the epitome of a provider, working tirelessly to care for his family. Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Martha; sisters, Marian and Josephine. He is survived by the love of his life and wife of 74 years, Barbara Jean; eight children: Kathy Hartley, Debi (Jerry) Hubbard, Joe Waselak Jr., Mike Waselak, Patti (Jim) Aune, Paul Waselak, Mary (Paul) Ullom and Becky Korsunsky; nine grandchildren: Mike Hubbard, Barb (Paul) Lofgren, Courtney (Jason) Wetherbee, Jessica (Brandon) Klein, Jennifer (Ben) Mahlik, Stephanie (Mike) Bergeron, Samantha (Dan) Schmidt, Nolan (Kiana) Frink, and Eli Waselak; 17 great-grandchildren, Barb's baby sister: Penny (Bob) Young; and many nieces, nephews and in-laws. The family would like to thank Joe's hospice nurse Nina and home health aide Martha, who both provided warmth and comfort during his final days. Services for Joe will be held at the Church of St. Paul at 1740 Bunker Lake Blvd., Ham Lake on Thursday, Feb. 13. A visitation will take place from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. with a Mass and luncheon to immediately follow. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the Fr. Tim Nolan Vocations Endowment Fund. www.churchofsaintpaul.com/vocations-fund

Tributes

Joseph John Waselak

October 22, 1928 - February 6, 2025

Tributes

Joseph John Waselak

October 22, 1928 - February 6, 2025

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