Joseph C Syiek

CONCORD, MA Joseph Charles Syiek, 89, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 22, 2010, at his home in Concord, MA with family at his side. He was born April 7, 1921, in Worcester, MA, the second son of the late Charles S. Syiek and Nazira (Lian) Syiek, both of Worcester. Joe grew up in Worcester among a large and loving family including his brothers, George and Alfred. Joe served in the Army during World War II and was wounded in action during the Battle of the Bulge (www.syiek.com/bastogne). After being honorably discharged, he returned to Worcester and attended Worcester Polytechnic Institute, from which he graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering. He married Agnes Johnson in 1950, devoted to her until her passing in 1985. Together they raised their family in Concord, MA., where Joe was employed as an engineer until his retirement with the U.S. Air Force at Hanscom Field in Bedford, MA. Joe and Agnes were loving parents to five childen who survive him: Joseph and his wife Mary of Huntington Beach, CA; James of Boxborough, MA; John and his wife Amy of Concord; Judy and her husband Tim Lafrancis of Acton, MA and Andrew of Leominster, MA. He is also survived by four grandchildren: Joanna, Meaghan, Alex and Kevin; a brother, Alfred "Fred" Syiek and his wife Claire of Andover, a sister in law, Shirley Syiek, of Sebastopol Calif: many wonderful cousins, nieces and nephews whom he dearly loved. His brother, George Syiek predeceased him. After retirement, Joe remained active in his church and with the local Council on Aging where he organized a vision support group for those suffering from macular degeneration and other eye-related illnesses. Joe gave to everyone generously, and loved to entertain and share good times with all of his family and friends. Friends are invited to visit with the family Thursday, June 24th from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. in Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, 256 Hamilton St. Worcester, MA. Joe's funeral service will be held Friday, June 25th at 10:00 am in Our Lady of Perpetual Help. Burial will follow in Notre Dame Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent in his memory to the Concord Friends of the Aging, 1276 Main Street, Concord, MA 01742; or the Orphan's of Lebanon, care of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, 256 Hamilton Street, Worcester, MA, 01604. The Mercadante Funeral Home & chapel, 370 Plantation St is honored to assist the family with arrangements.