Joseph J. Balusik, Jr.

Joseph J. Balusik, Jr., 80 years, of Ottawa Lake, MI passed away peacefully in his home with his wife by his side on Thursday, June 6, 2019. The son of Joseph and Mary (Halada) Balusik, Sr., he was born on May 6, 1939 in Detroit, MI Joseph married the love of his life Jacqueline in 1968. They had 51 years of joy. He was a 1957 graduate of Central Catholic High School of Toledo. He served honorably in the United States Air Force. Upon his discharge he opened a Gulf 76 truck and car service station on Reynolds Rd in Toledo.  He spent the majority of his career in the transportation and logistics sector of the glass and steel industries for various companies, most recently Dearborn Steel Express in Ecorse, MI. Joe was an avid sports enthusiast and spent many years in coaching; first with St. Clement’s School (Toledo) as a girl’s basketball coach as well as assisting with coaching football at Whiteford High School (Ottawa Lake, MI) in the 1980’s. Joseph leaves a legacy of kindness, of finding joy in all of life’s mysteries and of mentorship.  The lives he positively influenced in industry and in his personal life are many. He sought to bring forth the best in everyone he interacted with; both professionally and personally. Joe is survived by his loving wife Jacqueline; his children Joe & Lynne (Khris) Shively; siblings Marylyn Lucas & Richard (Gloria) Balusik; grandchildren Alexis, Skyler, Kamron and Marisa and nieces & nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents Mary & Joseph. Per his wishes, there will be no service or viewing.