Joseph Duriak's Obituary
Joseph Duriak passed away suddenly on Saturday, November 18, 2023.
Born on August 2, 1961, to the late Joseph and Rosemary Duriak (nee Driscoll), Joe grew up in a large Catholic family and treasured his childhood years on Boston Road in Hinckley. He graduated Padua Francisan High School in 1979. Later, he went on to earn a B.A. in Accounting from Cleveland State University, and he never lost his curiosity or his love for learning.
On July 12, 1986, Joe married the love of his life, Loretta "Lori" Brugmann. Three years later, they welcomed their first daughter Mallory and soon after, their daughter Carly. Joe loved his girls with all his heart and did everything to support and care for them, ensuring they never had to worry about anything.
Joe worked in retail management at Giant Eagle for over 40 years. He went above and beyond every day and was deeply committed to his team. A hard worker, he never failed to answer the call if there was anything he could do to make things run more smoothly for his coworkers and customers. He also worked as a bartender at the Aurora Inn for over 20 years, where his easy smile, steady presence, great sense of humor, and listening ear made him a best friend to his guests and co-workers.
Joe cherished his extended family, including his many siblings, cousins, aunts, uncles, in-laws, nieces, and nephews. He was beloved "U.J." to nieces Katie and Kelli Gurin, niece and goddaughter Danielle Phinney (Matt), and nephews, Connor (Savannah) and Collin Johnson. Every year, he looked forward to his Florida trips with his brother-in-law Alan Brugmann, and his dear friends Jon Osborn and Brian Tayerle.
Joe was also a great friend to all animals, furred, feathered, finned and otherwise. From his beehives to his aquarium, he opened his home to all creatures. His dogs, Romy Mae and Wrigley "W.D.", his cat Crumb, and his parrot Cappuccino were a few of his treasured pets. He cared for wild birds, squirrels, and any other animal fortunate enough to cross his path.
Always up for an adventure, Joe enjoyed everything from scuba diving, skiing and kayaking to taking his dogs on bike rides. He also loved to travel, especially with his daughter Carly. They visited football stadiums across the country. He finished the Chicago Marathon many times, none more special than the few he shared with Carly.
A devout Catholic, Joe taught PSR classes at St. Joseph's Church in Mantua for many years. He also served the church as a Eucharistic minister and Ox Roast volunteer.
He was welcomed into Heaven by his adoring Irish mother, his father, his uncle John "Buzzy" Driscoll, and all the other family members and precious friends who have gone on before, including his four-legged family members Gladys, Ramona, Cookie, and Gigi. His passing leaves behind a void that can only be filled by memories. Joe is survived by his wife and daughters; his sisters Kathleen (the late Stevan) Streem, Mary Jo Gurin (Chuck), Noreen Johnson (Brian); his brother Tony; and his nieces and nephews.
Calling hours will be held on Friday, November 24th from 4:00 to 8:00 PM at St. Joseph's Church, 11045 St. Joseph’s Blvd. Mantua, OH 44255. Mass of Christian burial will be held 9:00 AM on Saturday, November 25th, also at St. Joseph's Church, led by Father Ed Stafford and Deacon Gerry Scopilliti. Alan Brugmann, Ryan Driscoll, Davey Lukwinski, Jon Osborn, Jamie Spacek, and Brian Tayerle will be honored to serve as pallbearers. Joe will be laid to rest beside his parents at Calvary Cemetery 10000 Miles Ave., Cleveland, OH 44105.
Flowers or donations can be sent to St. Joseph's Church and donations can be made in Joe's memory to PAWS Chicago, 1997 N. Clybourn Ave., Chicago, IL 60614. Arrangements are by Green Funeral Care, 4668 Pioneer Trail, Mantua, OH 44255 where his condolences and memories may be viewed at www.greenfuneralcare.com, video tribute to follow.
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