Joseph Kolok, known to many as Uncle Joe or The Silver Fox, passed away peacefully at home on Oct. 8. Having taken care of him for many years, his niece, Catherine Konitshek Martin and faithful dog, Teddy, were at his side.
Joe was born in Greenwich, Dec. 12, 1922 and was a Byram fixture, living all his life within a one-mile radius in Byram. He was most proud of his Slovak heritage and his service in WWII as a radioman 3rd class on Merchant Marine ships for the U.S. Navy in the Pacific. He was the recipient of many awards, plaques and proclamations, which he proudly displayed. As recently as two years ago, he went on the Honor Flight and proclaimed it as “one of the best days of my life!”
Joe was a lifetime member of the Byram Vets and served as the permitee. He was formerly employed by Fawcett Publishing in the IT department and had a lifelong fascination with computers and all things technical. Joe was part of their bowling league and an avid golfer. After his retirement, at age 62, he traveled the world with his wife, Mary Stalica Kolok, who pre-deceased him on Oct. 8, 1999.
Joe is survived by many relatives, including his nieces, Cathy Martin, Sue Darula, his nephews John and Jim Kolok and several great-nieces, nephews and cousins. It often seemed he was somehow related to everyone in Greenwich.
As a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Byram, a service of remembrance will be held there Saturday, Oct. 13 at 10 a.m. Interment will be at St. Mary’s Cemetery. Calling hours will be held on Friday, Oct. 12 from 4 to 8 p.m. at Coxe & Graziano.
Cathy would like to thank Dr. William Brown and the hospice team from Constellation Homecare in Norwalk for their compassion and support. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to The Hudson Valley Honor Flight, P.O. Box 375, Walden, NY 12586.
