Joseph P. Bednarik, 83, of Howland, passed away Monday, September 9, 2013 at 12:10 a.m. at Renaissance North Rehabilitation Center in Howland.

Joe was born on March 22, 1930 in Warren the son of the late Steve and Katherine (Solc) Bednarik Sr. and was a lifelong area resident.

Joe was a charter member of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish-Sts. Cyril & Methodius Church in Warren, where he was active in the recitation of the rosary before the 9:30 a.m. Sunday morning Mass. He was an avid gardener and was very proud of his Slovak heritage and enjoyed studying his heritage, the Slovak language, dancing and Slovak music.

A veteran of the United States Marine Corps, Joe served his country during the Korean War as a machine gunner with the 4th Marine Corps Reserve and Recruitments. He was honorably discharged on November 23, 1951 with the rank of Sergeant.

Joe retired from General Motors after many years of dedicated service.

Joe married the former Mary L. Baucic on May 22, 1954 and they were married for 43 years until her passing on June 19, 1997.

Joe is survived by a brother John J. Bednarik of Bristolville; four sisters Mary Ann Odom of Austintown, Margaret Spirko of Warren, Helen Siska of Gulf Breeze, Florida and Ann Harrison of Louisville, KY; by many nieces and nephews and his companion of 13 years Mary Grace Butch of Howland.

Besides his parents and wife, Joe was preceded in death by a brother Steve M. Bednarik.

Calling hours will take place on Friday, September 13, 2013 from 5 until 7 p.m. at the Sinchak & Sons Funeral Home where the rosary will be recited at 4:45 p.m. Friday.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 10:00 a.m. with Fr Jeffrey Stealey officiating and Fr. Frederick Lukehart concelebrating in St. Elizabeth Ann Seton-Sts. Cyril & Methodius Church preceded by closing prayers to be recited at 9:20 a.m. in the funeral home prior in leaving for church.

Burial will take place in All Souls Cemetery in Cortland with full military honors provided by the Trumbull County Honor Guard.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial contributions be made in Joe's name to the Heritage Fund at Sts. Cyril & Methodius Church, 185 Laird Ave NE, Warren, Ohio 44483.

Professional and Caring Arrangements are being handled by the Sinchak & Sons Funeral Home.