Joseph M. Ochwat

Joseph Michael Ochwat, 79, passed away peacefully on December 12th at his home. Preceded in death by his parents (Joseph and Micheline), Joseph is now reunited with his loving and devoted wife of 52 years, Sharon Ochwat. Born on July 7, 1944, he is survived by his beloved children and adored grandchildren: Shannon Siberski (Rick), St. Louis, MO, and their two children Bryn and CJ. Chancy Ochwat, Philadelphia, PA, and her three children Olivia, Josephine, and Donovan. JT (Lucinda), Dallas, TX, and their two children Kenneth and Patrick. Kurran (Jaclyn), Columbus, OH Joseph was devoted to his family and had a special place in the hearts of his grandchildren, known affectionately as "The Best Papa in the World." In addition to his immediate family, he leaves behind his sisters Micheline (Phil) and JoAnn, and Sisters-in-law DonnaLee, Kathy (Jim), Shelia and Brother-in-law Terry. Joseph formed trusting and meaningful relationships with all those around him and he also leaves behind lifelong friends Bill and Theresa Pleasants, Susan (Wayne) Kaschak, and Davie & Katie Robinson. First Lieutenant Joseph M Ochwat received the Bronze Star Medal to certify his achievements in Vietnam from June 1969 to April 1970. He was most honored by his country for his professional skill and sound judgment leading to a distinction that sets him apart as a truly professional soldier. He will be most remembered for the humbling impact he made on his children's and grandchildren's lives and all those around him whom he touched throughout his life. His self-proclaimed biggest accomplishments in life were the amazing relationships he cultivated with all four of his children. The adult children and their families formed a close-knit, loving support team to one another, creating a legacy of warmth and unity that Joseph and Sharon couldn't have ever wished for more. A memorial service will be held at 10:00am on January 5th at Saint Elizabeth's, followed by a private ceremony with military honors at the Resurrection Cemetery immediately afterward. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Gary Sinise Foundation at www.garysinisefoundation.org, which is a Veterans first responders organization that was close to Joseph's heart. Your contributions will support the foundation's mission. Memorial donations can be completed either online or via mail by check or credit card. To donate online, please go to www.garysinisefoundation.org and click the red “DONATE” button. Once you are on the DONATE NOW page, scroll down to “DONATE WITH A DEDICATION POSTCARD” and “DONATE WITH A DEDICATION E-CARD”. Click on the dedication you would like to send and fill out the form.

Joseph M. Ochwat

July 7, 1944 - December 12, 2023