Joseph Nagy

Through the struggles of the Great Depression and the trials of war, Joe Nagy witnessed and experienced much throughout his 93 years. Although his earlier years taught him much, they made him the man he came to be and so well loved by many. He had a family for which he was proud, and lived completely and fully as life brought opportunity his way. He leaves much to be remembered, and will be dearly missed.

Nestled in the small, rural community of Wheatland Township, Michigan, Rose and Joseph Nagy, Sr. were anticipating the birth of a new child in their lives. And just as the land was beginning to thaw after a cold Michigan winter, they celebrated the birth of their infant son, Joseph Nagy, Jr. on March 12, 1920.

Young Joseph grew up in Detroit, Michigan's southwest side alongside his siblings, Caroline, John, Frank, Steve, Julius, and George. With seven children in tow, it made for a bustling household filled with laughter, adventure, and always someone to play with. Joseph attended the area schools, but when his father unexpectedly died when he was quite young, Joseph had no choice but to leave his education behind and help pull the reins of responsibility together and offer the stability his family so desperately needed at this trying time.

To help make ends meet, Joe helped deliver milk on the milk wagon, sold newspapers, and delivered telegrams to support his family. Quite an undertaking for such a young man, but Joe did so selflessly and willingly for the sake of his family. Joe went on to work for, and retire from the Chrysler Corporation as a trim repairman.

In 1943, Joe proudly joined the U.S. Navy during World War II. He served on a PT boat, otherwise known as a patrol torpedo. Nicknamed "the mosquito fleet", the enemy referred to them as "Devil Boats". Ironically, Joe never did learn how to swim, and when it came time for his swim test when he entered the service, his brother filled in for him! For a portion of time, he was stationed in the Philippines. Soon after his honorable discharge from the service, Joe met the woman who would forever hold the key to his heart. Anna Rose was Joe's dream come true, and in April of 1952, they began their new lives together as husband and wife.

The sense of family in Joe's heart was of the greatest importance. He longed to be the kind of father he only had for just a short time, so when he and Anna began a family of their own, Joe's heart was filled beyond comprehension. Together they shared the love of three children, Ken, Janet, and Dan, who made their lives complete. Joe was extremely proud of his children and was an ever present and involved part of their lives. When the boys were young, he took part in their boy scout activities, and as a family they enjoyed fun-filled vacations over the years. Joe loved watching the Tigers and attended many of their games with his brother, daughter, Janet, and other family members. Above all, Joe supported his children's educations, career choices, and all their endeavors.

Joe took the opportunity for travel over the years where he experienced and enjoyed the best of times. Along with visiting his son, Dan and his family in Texas, he also visited California, St Louis, Canada and other great places with his good friends, Nancy and Lynn. During his retirement, he discovered his interest and talent in painting. He made many scenic portraits and one of his special paintings included that of the Boblo boat. A favorite of days gone by, the Boblo boats carried passengers as it steamed up and down the Detroit river. One of his most difficult and thought provoking attempts was the wonderful self portrait which will be forever treasured.

With eight grandchildren to love, Joe was a wonderful grandfather. They made his life exceptionally complete, and he was very proud of them and their successes. When great-grandson, Elijah was born, Joe could hardly contain his happiness at finally becoming a great-grandfather. And with the additions of Noah and Jonah, he was as happy as any great-grandfather could be.

Joe was an avid crossword player. When it came to TV, he enjoyed watching Wheel of Fortune, and old movies. He was also a big reader which usually consisted of mysteries and history. Joe loved a good joke, and socially, he could strike up a conversation with anyone. Following the death of his beloved, Anna, Joe's brother, Frank talked him into ballroom dancing, and it was something that Joe enjoyed for many years to come.

As the years accumulated in Joe's life, he slowed down some, but never lost his gift for gab or his wonderful way of interacting with others. For the last several years, Joe lived at Sunrise Assisted Living Center where he walked often and enjoyed talking to the staff and others who came his way daily. He will be dearly missed there, but in the hearts of his family and many loved ones, Joe leaves much to be remembered for all he was and more.

Joseph Nagy, age 93, passed away Sunday, April 14, 2012. He was preceded in death by his wife, Anna; brothers, John, Steve, and Frank; and sister, Caroline. Joe was the loving father of Ken (Marilyn), Janet (Mark), Dan (Cynthia); the beloved grandfather of eight and cherished great-grandfather of three. He is also survived by his brothers, Julius and George.

Joe's family will receive friends Thursday from 3-9 PM at Neely-Turowski Life Story Funeral Home, 30200 Five Mile (between Merriman and Middlebelt). The funeral service will be held Friday, April 19, 2013 at St. Matthew United Methodist Church, 30900 West Six Mile Road, Livonia at 10:30 AM where he will lie instate from 10:30 AM until the service begins at 11:00 AM. Interment Roseland Park Cemetery. To view Joseph’s Life Story film, share a favorite memory and photo, and to sign his online guest book, please visit www.neely-turowski.com.