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Joseph Zelek, 78, passed away peacefully at home on October 19th, 2026.
He was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and dedicated pharmacist who spent much of his life serving others and making a difference in his community.
Joe graduated from Mt. Pleasant High School in 1966 and The Ohio State University College of Pharmacy in 1972. He was a member of the Ohio Pharmacists Association and opened a pharmacy in Dillonvale, Ohio, in 1986. For Joe, being a pharmacist was more than a profession; it was a way to serve his community. He genuinely cared about the people he served and was always willing to go the extra mile, even opening the pharmacy late at night for anyone who needed a prescription.
Joe never met a stranger. He loved talking with people, hearing their stories, and learning about their lives. His friendly nature, generosity, and willingness to help others left a lasting impression on those who knew him.
In addition to his career as a pharmacist, Joe served on the Buckeye Local School Board, where he received recognition from the Ohio School Boards Association for his 25 years of service.
Joe was also a talented musician who enjoyed playing the piano, trumpet, and accordion. Music brought him great joy throughout his life. He especially loved listening to Harry Chapin and The Beach Boys, as well as traveling to support his son Joe's musical endeavors.
Joe also had a passion for cars and loved to tell stories about the memories that came along with each one.
Although Joe did not travel frequently, he enjoyed the adventures he did take, including cross-country drives to California and Florida to visit friends and family.
Above all, Joe treasured his family. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather who found great happiness in spending time with those he loved. He especially enjoyed playing with his grandchildren, creating special memories that they will carry with them for years to come.
Joe will be remembered for his kind heart, his love of conversation, his passion for music, and his unwavering dedication to his family and community. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, the people he helped, and the family he loved so dearly.
He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
He is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Rose. His two sons Joseph Zelek Jr. and Jared (Nicole) Zelek. His three grandchildren Ava, Jack, and Luke Zelek. His siblings Jean (James) Yates, Larry (Teresa) Zelek, Wilma (Larry) Boroski. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Betty Ferron, and brother-in-law, Joseph (Toni) Ferron, as well as several nieces and nephews.
Family and friends will be received on Sunday, October 25th, 2026, from 2-5pm at Wilson Funeral Home on 154 2nd Street in Dillonvale, Ohio. Funeral services will be on Monday, October 26th at 10am at the funeral home officiated by the Most Rev. William Cross. Burial will follow at Holly Memorial Gardens.
To leave the family a condolence please visit www.wilsonfuneralhomes.com