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Ontonagon
Joseph Steven Moskwa of Ontonagon and Red Wing, Minnesota passed peacefully Saturday, May 19 at St. Mary’s Hospital, Rochester, MN following a brief illness.
He was born July 26, 1929 to Joseph and Sophie (nee Mazurek) in Ontonagon, the oldest son of three siblings, Helen (Drew) and John Moskwa. His youth was spent living in Ontonagon and attended OHS, graduating in 1947. He especially enjoyed his athletic competitions in football and track and continued to support the local sports booster clubs through his adult years. Following graduation, he enlisted in the US Army and served in Japan during the Korean conflict. Upon conclusion of his military service he returned to Ontonagon and worked construction in the local area.
He met and married Betty Johnson, May 8th, 1954 and raised a family of six.
Joe and Betty greatly enjoyed their family and friends in the neighborhood. An annual vegetable garden was enjoyed by all, with fishing and sporting activities each season of the year. Joe was also active in local politics, serving 46 years in various positions in community and county government.
He is survived by five of his children and their families, Steven & Patti Ann of Mackinac Island; Jim of Ann Arbor; Debra of Three Rivers; Rick and Michele of Red Wing, MN; Dan and Nicole of Goffstown, NH and nine grandchildren and three great grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother John Moskwa of Dundee, MI and close friend Helen Toivenen of Mass City, MI.
In addition to his parents, Mr. Moskwa was preceded in death by his wife of 51 years, Betty; his daughter Linda and sister Helen Drew.
A memorial service will be held Thursday, May 24 at 11 AM at Holy Family Catholic Church in Ontonagon with visitation prior to the service at 10 AM. A grave side service will follow and a luncheon at the Holy Family Church.
In lieu of flowers Memorials can be made to Holy Family Catholic Church, Ontonagon and Faith in Action of Red Wing, MN.
To view Joe’s obituary or to send condolences to the family please visit www.memorialchapel.net.
The Memorial Chapel & Plowe Funeral Homes of Hancock, MI is assisting the family with arrangements.
