Joseph J. Opsitnik Jr. 1945-2025

Joe was born Jan. 15, 1945, in Youngstown, to Joseph Sr. and Margaret Opsitnik. He lived his entire life in the communities of Lowellville and Struthers, playing his favorite sport of baseball and graduating from Struthers High School.

Later, he joined the U.S Army and served in Germany, where he earned both a Sharpshooter Award and National Defense Medal during his active duty.

After his military service, Joe worked at Republic Steel and began the process to become a police officer. He subsequently joined the Struthers Police Department and proudly served his community alongside his fellow officers. Joe enjoyed special training opportunities through his daytime job and also moonlighted as a security officer for various facilities in the area. Through these pursuits, he received numerous awards and commendations.

Outside of work, Joe had a strong passion for polka music, developing friendships with various polka band members and serving as a member of the Penn-Ohio Polka Pals Booster Club for many years. He also enjoyed boating and fishing at Lake Erie, watching old Westerns and faithfully following his favorite sports teams, the Cleveland Indians and Cleveland Browns.

Joe married his beloved sweetheart, Josephine Hvizdos “Josie,” on Sept. 20, 1969. Together they had a son, Scott Joseph Opsitnik, and the family engaged in picnics, Lake Erie outings and fishing. Joe also enjoyed the addition of a grandson, Tyler, and a treasured daughter-in-law, Liz, whom he considered to be one of the most caring, helpful people in his life.

Joe was preceded in death by his wife, Josie Opsitnik; father, Joseph Opsitnik Sr.; mother, Margaret Ondrey Opsitnik; and brother-in-law, Harry Potts.

He is survived by his dear sister, Peggy Potts, as well as countless special cousins, devoted neighbors and loving friends who helped him immensely in his final months.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Tony and Sue Martucci, along with Bob and Lisa Rohrman, for their unconditional love, caregiving and support.

In lieu of flowers, individuals are asked to consider a memorial donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or another charity of their choice.

Calling hours will take place from 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 10, 2026, at Clemente Funeral in Struthers, with a memorial service immediately following at 11 a.m.

Visit www.ClementeFuneralHomes.com to view this obituary and send condolences.

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