Joseph T. Pichola, 93, of Akron and formerly of Elyria passed away Tuesday October 15, 2013 at his home following a brief illness. He was born December 2, 1919 in Shamokin, PA. and lived in Elyria for most of his life, spending the last several years in Akron. Joe was employed at the former Republic Steel and Tube Company in Elyria for 42 years, retiring in 1982 from the shipping department. He was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Elyria where he served as a usher for many years. He was a W.W. II United States Army veteran, former treasurer of the United Steel Workers Union, a member of the V.F.W. Post 1079 and the American Legion Post 12, and enjoyed golfing, travel, gardening and dancing. Survivors include his daughters, Kathleen Pichola (James Lewis Jr.) of Copley, OH. And Laurie (Dale) Fortune of Akron with whom he made his home; son, Michael Lee Pichola of Elyria; daughter-in-law, Marcia Pichola of Elyria; 6 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; sister, Eleanor Povish of PA.; brother, Robert (Maureen) Pichola of PA.. He was preceded in death by his wife Beatrice in 1980, son, Richard Pichola in 1991 and a granddaughter, Audrey in 1993. The family will receive friends Saturday from 11:00 until 1:00 p.m. in the Weigand Room at St. Mary Church 320 Middle Ave., Elyria. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 1:00 p.m.. The Rev. Fr. Steven Breck of St. Hilary Catholic Church in Fairlawn will be the Celebrant. Burial will be at St. Mary Cemetery, Elyria, where members of V.F.W. Post 1079 will conduct full military honors. In liue of flowers memorial contributions can be made to the Summa hospice 444 North Main St. Akron, OH. 44310. Online condolences may be expressed at www.laubenthalmercado.com Service: 1:00 PM Saturday October 19, 2013 St. Mary Catholic Church 320 Middle Ave. Elyria, OH. Visitation: 11:00 AM-1:00 PM Saturday October 19, 2013 Wiegand Room at St. Mary Church 320 Middle Ave. Elyria, OH.