Joseph Robert Gerchak, 87, of Howland Township, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family Tuesday, December 16, 2014 at 10:45 p.m. in Trumbull Memorial Hospital.

Joe was born at home on September 11, 1927 in Youngstown, Ohio, the son of the late John and Mary Yankulak Gerchak.

Joe was a U.S. Navy veteran of World War II, an active member of the American Legion, and a lifelong member of St John Paul II Parish in Warren.  He enjoyed golfing, playing cards, talking about the "good old days " and most importantly spending time with his family.  Joe also had a passion for baseball and founded the Howland girls softball league.

As an electrician, Joe worked 41 years at Republic Steel, retiring in 1986.  Although retired. He never stopped working and helping friends and family with faulty wiring, leaky pipes or any odd jobs he could assist with.

Joe is survived by the love of his life, Rosie (Kook) Gerchak with whom he shared 68 wonderful years in sickness and in health.  From cheering on the Cleveland Indians, to watching old western movies, they spent every moment together enjoying life.

Along with his wife, Joe is also survived by two daughters, Rosanne (James) Thompson of Howland and Susan (Bruce) Nemcosky of Cortland; four grandchildren, Lisa (Richard) Mueller, Paul Gaydosh, Sharon (Matthew) Skoczen and Tracy (Jesse) Olin; thirteen great-grandchildren; and two sisters, Helen Kaplon and Sophie Novak.

Besides his parents, Joe was preceded in death by three brothers, Michael, Frank and John and one sister Marie.

Calling hours will take place on Friday, December 19, 2014 from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the Sinchak & Sons Funeral Home, 727 E. Market St., Warren, Ohio 44481.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, December 20, 2014 in St. John Paul II Parish with Fr. Christopher Henyk officiating, preceded by closing prayers to be recited at 9:20 a.m. in the funeral home prior in leaving for the church. Burial will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery in Champion.

Caring and professional arrangements for the Gerchak family are entrusted to the Sinchak & Sons Funeral Home.

Family and friends may view this tribute and share condolences to the Gerchak family at www.sinchakandsons.com.