Joseph Adam Szczerbiak Sr., 73, of Toledo, Ohio, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family on Saturday, February 11, 2023, at Mercy St. Vincent Medical Center.

Joe worked as a nurse for 42 years. He was a pioneer in nursing, in that he was one of Toledo's first male nurses, blazing the trail for men who came after him in the field. Joe worked most of his career as Charge Nurse in the ICU at Riverside Mercy Hospital, ultimately retiring from Mercy St. Anne Hospital. Joe's love of teaching and passion for nursing led him to teach future nurses through the hospital as well as at Owens Community College.

While Joe was dedicated to his work, he was devoted to his family the most. His wife, June (Junebug), and three children were his pride and joy. He married June, the love of his life, in July 1972. Joe and June spent their weekends taking road trips together, spending time with their family, and showing his 1971 Chevy Nova (earning him the nickname Joe Nova). Those who knew Joe, know he was an avid Ohio State fan. He never missed a chance to cheer on the Buckeyes, especially while having a pint, appreciating a fine cigar, and sharing some smoked or grilled meats with his friends, which he lovingly prepared. Joe was loved and respected by many; he never met a stranger, and in the end, everyone called him a friend.

Joe was born on August 18, 1949, in Toledo, Ohio to Adam and Helen (Danko) Szczerbiak. Joe is survived by his loving children, Tamara (Charles) Stansley, Rebekah (James) Bresler, Joe (Wendy) Szczerbiak, his sister, Carol (Szczerbiak) Jones, and grandchildren, Steven, Taylor, Irene, Aiden, Easton, Justin, and Michael. He is preceded in death by his parents and the love of his life, June.

In remembrance of Joe, raise a pint, cheer on the Buckeyes, smoke a cigar, appreciate a classic car show, share a meal with those you love, take a leisurely drive, grill or smoke some meat, and crack a dad joke.

The family will receive friends at the Eggleston Meinert & Pavley Funeral Home, Oregon Chapel 440 S. Coy Road Friday, February 24, 2023 from 12:00 p.m. until time of memorial service at 3:00 p.m. Please send material donations to Nature's Nursery in Whitehouse, Ohio.