Joseph A. Lesko Jr. 1947-2026
WARREN — Joseph Albert Lesko Jr. passed away Sunday, Feb. 15, 2026, at his home surrounded by his family, following a lengthy illness.
He was born Feb. 23, 1947, in Warren, a son of Joseph Lesko Sr. and Anna Harkus Lesko. Joe was a proud graduate of Warren G. Harding High School. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, honorably serving his country. As a proud veteran, Joe carried out the values of service and perseverance with him throughout his life.
Joe was blessed with the birth of two sons, David and Joseph, and a daughter, Jennifer.
Admired for his strong work ethic, he provided for his family by being gainfully employed as a general manager for National Material Company and had previously been employed at Van Huffel Tube in Warren. He retired in 2015 after 31 years of committed service. He was also a part owner of 3-Way Trucking in Grosse Ile, Michigan.
Joe was an active member of several organizations, including the Veterans of Foreign War Post 1138, the Moose Lodge in Monroe, the Slovak Club in Warren and the Pennsalt Club in Wyandotte, Michigan.
Joe was an avid outdoorsman. He enjoyed the beauty of nature, whether he was fishing on the waters or hunting. He also loved rooting for his two favorite football teams, the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Cleveland Browns. He liked relaxing while watching some of his favorite Westerns and also enjoyed cooking and baking.
Joe was a good man with a kind spirit. He was easygoing and, more than anything, cherished the time he spent with family and friends.
To cherish his memory, he leaves two sons, David Lesko and Joseph Lesko III, both of Newport, Michigan; one daughter, Jennifer Lesko of Michigan; three sisters, Annie Peterson, Carol Byland and Karen McClung, all of Warren; several nieces and nephews; and extended family members, including Jimmy and the members of the Kruppa family.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Lesko Sr. and Anna Harkus Lesko; brother and sister-in-law, John and Pat Lesko; niece, Angela Lesko; and brothers-in-law, Bill Byland and David Peterson.
Friends may gather 2 to 6 p.m.Thursday, Feb. 19, 2026, at Merkle Funeral Service, Monroe, Michigan, with a service at 6 p.m. Military honors will be provided by the Monroe Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1138 Ritual Team. Cremation will follow.
A private graveside service will take place at All Souls Cemetery at a later date.
Friends and family may leave condolences at www.merklefs.com.
(special notice)