Joseph F. Kuzniar Sr.'s Obituary
Joseph F. Kuzniar Sr., age 95, passed away at home on Saturday, September 7, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on June 20, 1929, to Walter and Mary (Posobiec) Kuzniar at their family home in Fruitport, MI, where he lived all his life. A proud veteran, Joe served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict. Joe dedicated a combined 41.5 years to both Johnson Products and Sealed Power, perfecting his toolmaking skills before retiring in 1987. On April 13, 1956, he was married by the Justice of the Peace in Grand Rapids to the love of his life, Theresa Lakatos. They cherished 68 years together, sharing in love, laughter, dancing and delightful meals. They enjoyed many travels together: camping in the U.P., fishing at Muskallonge Lake, camping in Canada, fishing at Wakami Lake, hunting in Colorado, and enjoying some sunshine in Mexico. He was well known for his love of nature; he particularly loved rabbit hunting with his dogs, and took great pride in the garden that he maintained to his final days. Joe was always eager to share the wisdom he gained over his lifetime with anyone willing to learn, and would happily tell you anything over a glass of his homemade wine—you just may have a hard time remembering all the details after the second glass! Known for his passion for cooking, Joe always took the role of making a delicious homemade meal—often from his latest catch or harvest. He will forever be remembered for his sharp sense of humor and the mischievous twinkle in his eye when he had a great joke lined up. He was truly the life of every party, whether one of his infamous fish fry’s or a Polish dance. Above all, he loved the time spent with his family; there will never be a better Santa. His tender-loving and kind spirit will be missed by many. Joe is survived by his loving wife, Theresa Kuzniar; son, Joe (Carol) Kuzniar Jr.; four grandchildren, Melissa (Caleb Westbrook) Kuzniar, Tiffany (Luke) Hartung, Brandon Schultz and Ryan (Amanda Holm) Schultz; great-grandchildren, Chyles Schultz and Irenie Hartung; step-great-grandchildren, Fanula Hartung, Yanni Hartung, Mariam Hartung and Sava Hartung; and sister, Louise (Arnold) Redeker. He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Ranaé Thompson; three brothers, Stan (Frieda) Kuzniar, Chet (Wilma) Kuzniar and Richard (Eleanor) Kuzniar; and four sisters, Helen (John) Borgman, Stella (Edward) Allard, Sophie (Paul) Schultz and Gladys (Joe) Slezak. A Graveside Service will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, September 16, 2024, at Mona View Cemetery, 3335 Mona View Dr., Muskegon Heights, MI 49444. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Arrangements entrusted to The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444. Share memories with the family at www.sytsemafh.com.
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