Joseph P. Kolakowski, Sr.

Joseph P. Kolakowski, Sr., 86, of Tipp City, Ohio passed away peacefully at Hospice of Dayton on December 6, 2023. He was born on July 4, 1937 to the late Terry and Frances Kolakowski, Polish immigrants of Old North Dayton. Joseph was married to his loving wife Barbara (Flamm) Kolakowski for 63 years. In addition to his wife, he is survived by six children: Mary Williams (Mike), Joe Kolakowski, Jr. (Paulette), Christine Kolakowski, Michael Kolakowski (Emily), David Kolakowski (Codi), and Amy Shorter (Josh). Joseph is also survived by his grandchildren: Shannon Williams, Emily Williams, Matt Kolakowski (Kayla), Jacob Kolakowski (Rachel), Meghan Mefferd (Matt), Eloise Kolakowski, Amelia Kolakowski, Rosalie Kolakowski, Samuel Kolakowski, Hudson Kolakowski, Harrison Kolakowski; and one great-grandchild, Grace Kolakowski. In addition, Joseph is survived by his brother-in-law, John Flamm and sister-in-law, Helen Flamm. Joseph was the youngest of a large family and is preceded in death by his six siblings: Angela Kolakowski, Sister Mary Sebastian Kolakowski, OFM, Stephanie Sprude, Anthony (Tony) Kolakowski, Steve (Ted) Kolakowski, and Stella Kolakowski.

Joseph graduated from Patterson Co-op in 1956 and had several jobs including setting pins in a bowling alley, tool and die work, and working for Liberal Grocery before he landed his job at Dayton Power and Light (DP&L). He worked as a design draftsman for DP&L for 50+ years, and he loved to draw. He took great pride in his work and drafted the plans for both of his homes. Joseph served in the Air Force Reserve and was a dedicated member of Queen of Martyrs Catholic Church. In his earlier years, Joseph enjoyed roller skating, ice skating, and square dancing with his wife Barbara, and he even made her square-dancing outfits. Joseph was a jack of all trades, always working on his home and cars. He loved cooking and even baked and decorated his children’s birthday cakes. He was famous for his gravy and German potato salad. Joseph loved going out to eat at restaurants, such as Duff’s Smorgasbord and Marion’s Piazza. He enjoyed hosting family gatherings where he would cook all his wonderful meals. From family homemade pizza nights to taking the kids on family trips to Kings Island and Cedar Point, Joseph was always busy doing something with his family. His children have many fond memories with him, making snow hills, going fishing at the gravel pit, attending DP&L picnics, eating at Ponderosa, going to the Air Force Museum, and holding the flashlight while he worked on his cars. He was a problem-solver and wasn’t afraid to take on a difficult project at home or work.

In his retirement, he enjoyed walking, yard work, watching movies, playing Rummikub, attending family gatherings, and eating lots of ice cream. Joseph was a wonderful father, devoted husband, and caring brother and will be deeply missed by his family and all those who knew him.

Visitation will be held at Morton and Whetstone Funeral Home on Friday, December 15, 2023 from 4-7 p.m. for those who wish to express their condolences to the members of the family. A 10 a.m. visitation will be followed by a Mass of Christian burial at 11 a.m. at Queen of Martyrs Catholic Church, 4134 Cedar Ridge Road, Dayton, Ohio 45414. Burial services at Calvary Cemetery and luncheon to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family asks guests to donate to St. Vincent DePaul Society.

In lieu of flowers, contributions should be made in memory of Joe to the St. Vincent DePaul Society.