Beloved father and grandfather, Joseph J. Nitecki, Sr., 92, of Tiffin, passed away peacefully October 19, 2012. He was born on March 23, 1920, in Tiffin, Ohio, to Walter and Antonia (Weslowski) Nitecki.

Survivors include: two daughters, Jeanne Brock, his devoted caregiver, of Tiffin: Susan (John Estenik) Nitecki of Worthington; and two sons, Bruce Nitecki of Toledo and Joe (Roberta) Nitecki, Jr. of Tiffin: 12 grandchildren: Danny, Elizabeth, Nick, Nathan, Timothy, Jr., Christina, Alex, Andrew, Amy, Todd, Bryan, and Shanae; and many great grandchildren. Joe had great pride in his children and grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Francis: one sister, Helen: and son, Timothy Nitecki, Sr.

Joseph graduated in 1939 from Tiffin Calvert High School. He served as a sergeant in the 528th Field Artillery Battalion from 1941 - 1945, and was deployed to the European Theatre during WWII. He fought in Rhineland Central Europe, and was awarded 2 Bronze Stars, a World War II Victory Medal, and other recognitions for his service in combat.

After his discharge, he belonged to Plumbers and Pipe Fitters Local 50. He also owned and operated Nitecki's Plumbing and Heating for many years. After his retirement he drove a van for the Seneca County Commission on Aging. He enjoyed music, dancing, reading, traveling, and riding his motorcycle, and was a lifelong animal lover. Joe was a talented builder and very handy; building the family home and re-building a Model T-Ford.

A graveside service will take place on Saturday, November 24, 2012 at 11:00 A.M. at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery with military honors conducted by the United Veteran's Council.

Friends may meet with the family on Saturday from 10:00-10:45 A.M. at Hoffmann-Gottfried-Mack Funeral Home & Crematory.

Memorial contributions may be made to Stein Hospice.

Condolences may be sent and the guestbook signed at www.hgmackfuneralhome.com.