JOHN PAPISKA

John Papiska, 81, of Garrettsville, passed away on Wednesday, August 18, 2010. He was born February 15, 1929 in Pittsburgh, PA and attended Garrettsville Schools.

He entered the military in October, 1950 during the Korean War, and graduated with honors from the 14th Armored Calvary Regiment Non-commissioned Officer Academy in Germany. His plan was to make a career in the military; however, due to medical reasons and family responsibilities, he was unable to pursue that career. He was honorably discharged with the rank of Sergeant after serving 5 years active duty and 2 years on disability.

He completed four years of advanced training in electronics and worked in TV repair for 11 years where he was highly respected for his knowledge in that field. He then worked in construction until he retired, and for many years he drove for the Amish. He loved working with his hands and had the ability to fix or build anything. He was an animal lover and his dog, Babe, was his constant companion for many years. His hobbies where listening to radio transmissions and Morse code. He loved listening to music and comedians.

John is survived by his brother, Harold R. Papiska; sister, Mary Ann (Darwin) Leggett; 5 nieces: Terry (Gary) Stewart, Judy (Jerry) Vecchio, Patty (Ron) Kennard, Susie (Tim) Knudsen and Amy (Bruce) Lange; 7 great-nieces; 7 great-nephews; 2 great-great nieces and 6 great-great nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John S. and Lillian (Kucharek) Papiska, great-niece, Stacey Owens, great-great niece, Isabella Vecchio and his beloved dog, “Babe.” He was much loved and will be dearly missed by his family.

Calling hours are 2-4 PM on Sunday, August 22, 2010 at Mallory-DeHaven-Carlson Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 8382 Center St., Garrettsville, OH 44231. Funeral services will be at 10 AM on Monday at the funeral home with Rev. Glen Shedlock officiating. Burial with full military honors will follow at Park Cemetery in Garrettsville.