Joseph J. Szakal 'Josephus'

Joseph J. Szakal 'Josephus', 80, of Elyria, died Saturday, October 9, 2021 at his residence following a brief illness. He was born May 20, 1941 in Lorain and was a lifelong area resident. Mr. Szakal worked at U.S. Steel Lorain and worked as a plugger before his retirement in 1996. He was a member of St. Jude and St. Ladislas Catholic Churches. He also was a member of American Veterans Post 32, Elyria Eagles, Elyria Polish Club, Elyria Moose Lodge and United Steel Workers Union #1104. Dad loved flea marketing, street rods, Cleveland Indians, deer hunting and spending time at his farm in Whipple, Ohio. He especially enjoyed spending time with his family and being Papa Joe to many. Joseph is survived by his children, Debra Sue Szakal of Sheffield, John David (Rhonda) Szakal of Elyria and Jason Adam (Megan) Szakal of Whipple, Ohio; sisters, Ilona Szakal Kish (Jeno) of Amherst and two half sisters. He is also survived by 10 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren and his faithful companion, Linda Slanczka of Sheffield. He was preceded in death by his wife, Shirly Louise Szakal and his son, Joseph Anthony Szakal. Friends may call at Laubenthal-Mercado Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 38475 Chestnut Ridge Road (at St. Rt 57), Elyria, (440) 322-4626 from 4 to 7 p.m., Friday, October 15, 2021. Services will be in the funeral home on Saturday, October 16, 2021 at 11 a.m. with The Reverend Charles Ryba officiating. Burial will be at Calvary Cemetery, Lorain. Online condolences for the family may be left at www.laubenthalmercado.com