JOSEPH R. MARKO

Joseph R. Marko, 71, of Lakeland, passed away Wednesday September 7th at home surrounded by his family. My warrior, our hero, and hater of all things Parkinson’s Disease. Loving father to Charissa (“Mariah Heap”, “The Heapster”), Joey (“Jo-Bo”, “Jo-Boaster”) and devoted husband to Joanie has lost his fight. Joe was a lifelong resident of the Solvay/Lakeland area and graduate of Solvay High School. He and “Mr. Camp” were best friends as he was always in the Principal’s office. He was an avid fan of all S.U. sports, his beloved NY Yankees and Buffalo Bills. He loved his family unconditionally, including his puppy, Jake. Joe retired from Carrier Corp. after 30 years upon learning of this horrific Parkinson’s Disease diagnosis. He loved working, but you better stay back when he was driving his fork lift! He wanted to get home, sit by the pool and have a nice cold beer. Joe was always the hit of the party. This disease took so much from him, but he fought like hell to the bitter end. Never once complaining or saying “poor me”! Joe was predeceased by his parents Joseph & Elizabeth (Betty) Marko. He is survived by his loving wife and caregiver Joan (Wells) Marko, daughter, Charissa (Jim Foley), son, Joseph (Andrea Miller), 3 granddaughters, Ateya Marko Nicole Mirra and Corrine Miller, his brother, Mike (Heidi), sister-in-law, Diane Micho, brother-in-law, Dennis (Julie) Wells, sister-in-law, Pam (John) Mooney, brother-in-law, Keith (Lisa) Wells and several family members. The family wishes to thank the St. Camillus aides, nurses and therapists, Sue & Jeff for their compassionate care. Family and friends may call from 4:00 PM–7:00 PM Monday, September 12th at BAGOZZI TWINS FUNERAL HOME, 2601 Milton Ave. Solvay, NY. Funeral Services will be conducted 9:30 AM Tuesday, September 13th at the funeral home. The Rite of Committal and burial will follow in Sacred Heart Cemetery, Lakeland. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to Empower Parkinson CNY at www.parkinsoncny.org or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. Please share online memories and tributes at www.bagozzitwins.com.

JOSEPH R. MARKO

May 16, 1951 - September 7, 2022