Johnstown, PA - POLACEK - Joseph M., 88, of Daisytown, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on Dec. 11, 2025. Born Aug. 16, 1937, in Johnstown, the son of Joseph and Clara (Urbassik) Polacek. Preceded in death by parents; wife, Anna E. (Hegadus) Polacek; brother, Robert J. Polacek; and brother-in-law, Richard Kelsey. Survived by loving children; Stephen J. (Laurie Skelly) Polacek, of Johnstown; Eva Ann (Timothy) Murray, of Jenners, PA; Julie Ann Doell (Harry "JR" Nash), of Ashburn, VA; and Jennifer Ann Stutzman (Greg Mattes), of Johnstown. Also survived by beloved grandchildren, Victor (Cheyanne) Lord, Nadine Lord, Chloe Doell, Logan Doell, and Glenn Warren Stutzman; stepgrandsons, Kenneth and Aaron Frazier; sister, Elizabeth Kelsey; brother, Charles (Brenda Warner) Polacek; sister-in-law, Evelyn (Bronosky) Polacek; numerous nieces and nephews, and lifelong friend, Norm Verhovsek. Joseph was a proud United States Army veteran. Joseph worked and later retired from Bethlehem Steel Car Shop. Joseph loved working in his garden and shop. He was a master craftsman in sheet metal work and woodworking. In his early years, Joseph, along with his brother Bob, enjoyed welding with their Uncle Johnnie in his garage, which later evolved into JWF Industries. Joseph enjoyed playing his trumpet for weddings at the Slovak band hall in Cambria City. Joseph was a proud Slovak, who spoke the language fluently and enjoyed his numerous trips to Slovakia. The family would like to thank the staff at Windber Hospice, especially nurse Kelly and aide Michael, who took great care of Joseph. The family would also like to thank Rachel, who came to the house to play the harp for Joseph, which he loved. Joseph was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. He will truly be missed by many. Friends received Monday, Dec. 15, 2025, from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. at the Francis G. Ozog Funeral Home Inc., Broad Street. Joseph was a member of SS Gregory & Barnabas Parish in Daisytown, where a funeral Mass will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2025, with the Rev. Elue I. Callistus. Committal will take place at Grandview Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Joseph to his family. Condolences may be sent at fgozogfuneralhome.com. Na Zdravie!