Joseph M. Vajentic, 84, of Elyria passed away Wednesday July 31, 2019 at the Ames Family Hospice House in Westlake following a brief illness. He was born June 29, 1935 in Washington, PA., the son of Joseph and Rose (Yanek) Vajentic. On September 27, 1958 he married Suzanne Laube at St. Michael's Church in Findley, OH. Survivors include his wife of 61 years, Sue; children, Andrew (Michele, Deceased in 2003), Nora (Kevin) Conner, Amy (Terry) Butler, Elizabeth (Andrew) Woconish, Jennifer (Britt) Maras and Michael Vajentic, (Elizabeth Aguirre) grandchildren, James and Patrick Butler, Elly Maras, Lauren Vajentic, Avalon Woconish and Dominica and Kaitlin Conner; brother, Tom (Cathy) Vajentic; sister, Anna Kathryn Vajentic. Joe was a brother-in-law, uncle, cousin and friend to many. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Rose, son, Matthew, daughter-in- law, Michele and brother, Eric "Giz". Joe received his Bachelor's degree from Findley College and his Masters of Education from the University of Akron. For 32 years, he loved his profession of teaching and coaching at Keystone, Elyria Catholic and Avon Lake High School. Joe treasures his Catholic faith and attended St. Mary Church for many years. He had a passion for the outdoors and could often be found walking, golfing, playing softball or fly fishing. He was a lover of all sports and an avid fan of the Pittsburgh sports teams. He was inducted into the Findlay college Hall of Fame as a player, and Avon Lake Sports Hall of Fame as a coach. Joe also served in the National Guard. Above all, Joe was deeply devoted to his wife Sue and treasured family time with his children and grandchildren (to whom he was affectionately known as Papa Jojo). Joe was open minded and humble, loved learning and lived life with a grateful heart. His memory will be cherished by his family and loved ones. The family will receive friends Tuesday August 6, 2019 from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. in the Wiegand Room of St. Mary Church 320 Middle Ave., Elyria. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 a.m. in the Sanctuary of the church. The Rev. Fr. Charles Diedrick, pastor, will be the Celebrant. Burial will be at St. Mary Cemetery, Elyria. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to the Elyria Catholic High School Endowment Fund 725 Gulf Rd. Elyria, OH. 44035. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Laubenthal-Mercado Funeral Home and Cremation Service 38475 Chestnut Ridge Rd., Elyria. Online condolences may be expressed at www.laubenthalmercado.com

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