Joseph S. (Lefty) Govednik

A lifelong instigator of fun, Joseph “Lefty” Govednik died peacefully surrounded by his family. Loved by his many, many friends and family for his happy demeanor and corny jokes. Born and raised in Joliet, he was a longtime resident of Romeoville. He proudly served as a Merchant Marine during World War II.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Barbara (Putrich) Govednik.

Dear Old Dad to Karen (late Richard) Nelson, Nancy, Janice (Mark) Williams and Barbara (Thomas Wolf) Govednik.

Boomps to his grandsons Zachariah and Nathan Willett.

Favorite brother and brother-in-law to Dorothy (John) Mahan, Diane (late William) Govednik, Joan (late Louis) Zbacnik and Jim (Mary Lou Rutherford) Putrich.

Uncle Lefty to his many nieces and nephews and their kids.

Preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Johanna (Kosmerl) Govednik, brothers William and James Govednik, sister Jean Govednik and son-in-law Richard (Dick) Nelson.

He was a member of St. Mary’s Nativity, where he was an usher, and St. Joseph’s Holy Name Society.

Member of Joliet Rivals Club, American Legion Post 1080, Cantigny Post #367 and Croatian Fraternal Union Lodge #32. He was a proud, lifetime member of Ironworkers Local 444.

Special thanks to Jeannie, Kaci, Annie and Roxie from Above All Home Care, Joliet VA Home Health Care and Joliet Area Community Hospice.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to Joliet Area Community Hospice and St. Mary’s Nativity Church.

A celebration of Joseph’s life will begin on Saturday, March 24, 2018 with a visitation at Tezak Funeral Home, 1211 Plainfield Road, Joliet from 9:00 a.m. until the time of chapel prayers at 10:30 a.m., then processing to St. Mary Nativity Catholic Church for a Mass of Christian burial at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow at St. Mary Nativity Cemetery in Crest Hill where military honors will be rendered.