Joseph P. Kalesnik, 75, passed away on Thursday, August 10, 2017 at Baystate Medical Center. He was born in Springfield to the late Frank and Mary (Scycurka) Kalesnik and was a graduate of Cathedral High School. Joe attended Westfield State and received an Associate’s Degree in Business Management. He served his country with the United States Army during Korea from 1958-1962and attained the rank of Specialist 4th class. Joe was a member of the Korean War Veterans Association- Western Massachusetts Chapter #2000, where he served as the Chapter Treasurer and later Chapter Commander and member of Chapter #4, also the American Legion Post 124 in Westfield. Additionally, he led multiple fundraising efforts for the Koren War Association. He was employed by the United States Postal Service for 38 years. Jos worked as the station manager in West Springfield and regional field operations manager and superintendent of all delivery in Western Mass. Joe was active in sports, he coached little league and also coached Babe Ruth. He is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Danne L. (Patrick) Kalesnik of Westfield, his loving children, Gregory P. Kalesnik and his partner Brian Klambt of Pawtucket, R.I. and Tamara A. Kalesnik of Jersey City, NJ., his brother Lawrence Kalesnik of Ardmore, OK, a niece Irene Kolodziej Martin of East Longmeadow, brother-in-law Richard Patrick and his wife Loretta of Westfield, numerous nieces and nephews and his grand-dog Linus. He was predeceased by three brothers, Freddie, Leon and Lewis and his sister Stephanie Kolodziej. Joe’s funeral will be held on Saturday, August 19, 2017 at 9AM from the Firtion Adams FS, 76 Broad St. Westfield followed by a Liturgy of Christian Burial at 10AM in St. Peters/ St. Casmir’s Church, State St. Westfield. Burial with Military Honors will follow the mass in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Southampton Rd. Westfield. Visiting hours will be held on Friday from 4-7PM in the funeral home. Donations in Joe’s name may be directed to the American Heart Association, Western Mass Regional Center, P.O. Box 417005, Boston, MA 02241-7005. www.firtionadams.com

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