Joseph Stefanik, 85, Accomplished Athlete
Joseph Stefanik, age 85, of Lorain, died Friday, July 13, 2001 in the critical care unit of Community Health Partners Hospital and Surgical Center following a brief illness. He was born on June 9, 1916 in Clymer, Pennsylvania and had been a resident of Lorain since his childhood. He was a 1934-B graduate of Lorain High School. An accomplished athlete, he was a gifted fast-pitch softball player who participated with the traveling team sponsored by the Slovak Catholic Sokols Fraternal Lodge. He was also known as a top-notch golfer and bowler throughout the Lorain area. He enjoyed traveling.Mr. Stefanik was employed as a driver/salesman for the Service Overall Supply Company and was instrumental in developing the company's service territory in Lorain, Elyria, and Avon Lake. He retired from the company in 1977 following 33 years of service.
A parishioner of St. Nicholas Byzantine Rite Catholic Church- he was a member of the Greek Catholic Union Lodge #77.
Mr. Stefanik is survived by his wife of 59 years: Catherine (nee Parajka); sons: Paul of Amherst and Joseph of Oviedo, Florida; 5 grandchildren; and two great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents: Paul and Mary (nee Kramer) Stefanik, and brothers: John, Peter, Mike and two infant brothers.
Friends may call Monday, July 16, 2001 from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. in the Gluvna-Shimo- Hromada Funeral Chapel where a Parastas service will be observed at 7:30 p.m. Funeral services will begin at 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, July 17, 2001 in the funeral chapel and will be followed by a Divine Liturgy at 10:00 a.m. in St. Nicholas Byzantine Rite Catholic Church. Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery-Lorain.