JOSEPH Holubeck, who died Monday at the age of 90, lived a long life but more important than his longevity was the fact that he touched the lives of many people in a positive way.

He worked in several occupations during his lifetime, but it’s evident that his efforts in establishing St. Clair Lanes showed a love for bowling, and he knew how to draw attention to this leisure-time activity.

It’s no secret that his work in bowling is particularly outstanding. Others are quite aware of his contributions to this sport as he was selected for the Bellaire Bowling Association Hall of Fame.

Not only was Holubeck owner and operator of St. Clair Lanes, he founded the St. Clair Lanes 5-man team tournament now in its 49th year and one of the largest 5-man bowling tournaments in the nation.

That tournament has had an important economic impact on Eastern Ohio for nearly half a century as it draws bowlers from several nearby states in addition to Ohioans who like to compete in this event.

Those who attend the tournament as well as individuals and teams participating in bowling at St. Clair Lanes are well aware of Holubeck’s graciousness and friendliness. He took time for others and showed an interest in the people themselves.

An Eastern Ohio resident through and through, Holubeck was born in the small Jefferson County community of Herrick and later moved to Belmont County.

Before founding St. Clair Lanes near St. Clairsville, he worked for Nickles Bakery and as an insurance agent.

He served his country during World War II, and his service mainly was in Aleutian Islands, Alaska.

In addition to being a member of several organizations in the area, he was a member of St. Mary’s Church in St. Clairsville and served as an usher for many years.

MEMORIAL contributions may be made to a scholarship fund for youth bowlers in his memory.

That undoubtedly would have been especially pleasing to the soft-spoken man who believed in helping others.