Joseph Sikora
Joseph M. Sikora Jr., 90, of Byesville, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.
He was born November 5, 1935, in Byesville to the late Anna Theresa Sikora (Duke) and Joseph Michael Sikora Sr.
Joseph proudly served his country in the United States Army and often fondly shared stories of his time in Germany. He was employed for more than 30 years at Champion Spark Plug in Cambridge until his retirement. Following that, he worked as a custodian for the Rolling Hills School District. He also generously volunteered for many years at Southeastern Ohio Regional Medical Center alongside his beloved wife, Joan. During the 1970’s, he became a volunteer with the Byesville Volunteer Fire Department and served with them for many years.
Joseph was a man of strong faith and a lifelong member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Byesville. Following its closing in 2009, he became a member of Christ Our Light Parish (Saint Benedict’s).
Joseph devoted his life to his family. In his later years, he cherished being at home, often sitting in his favorite chair, watching over his garden, or enjoying time in the garage. He loved talking with his children and grandchildren, whether on the phone or during visits, always asking about their lives and taking joy in their company. Joseph had a lifelong love of classic cars and could spend hours reminiscing about them while browsing car lots. He took great pride in keeping his lawn and garden beautiful and found simple happiness in the small pleasures of home. He loved a good Slovak dish and always enjoyed his wife Joan’s cooking. Together, they spent many years making their famous nut rolls, a tradition he treasured. Above all, Joseph’s greatest joy came from the love and laughter of his family surrounding him.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joan Sikora, in 2022; and his sister, Dolores King, in 2021.
Joseph is survived by his children: Michael Anthony (Donnalyn) Sikora of Cambridge; Stephanie Ann (Sam) Mallette of North Canton; and Sarah Elizabeth (John) Rose of North Canton. He is also survived by Donnalyn’s children: Ian Cole McGrath and Jon Anthony McGrath; his grandchildren: Alexander, Anna, Amie, Andrew, Joseph Allen, and Henry John; and his siblings: Carol Raynak of North Olmsted, Jane (Tony) Mankus of West Chester, Mary Skeslock of Cambridge, and Jim (Sharon) Sikora of Cambridge. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, brothers-in law and sisters-in-law, cousins, dear friends, and extended family.
Visitation will be held Tuesday (April 14, 2026) from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Christ Our Light Parish (St. Benedict Catholic Church, Cambridge). A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 12 p.m. at the church. Black-Epperson Funeral Home, Byesville, is handling arrangements.
A private burial will take place at Greenwood Cemetery in Byesville at a later date.
Services will be live-streamed from the church.
Personal condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.black-eppersonfuneralhomes.com
