Joseph James Ocenasek, known as Joe to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on November 17, 2025, at McLaren-Lansing. Born on October 21, 1942, in Flint, Michigan, to the late Joseph J. Ocenasek and Mary Kuchar, Joe's life was a testament to his generous spirit, friendly demeanor, and selfless nature.
Joe grew up in a loving family and graduated from Perry High School, where he laid the foundations for a life full of achievements and meaningful relationships. On February 29, 1964, he married the love of his life, Brenda Lou Holzhausen, in Owosso, and together they built a life filled with joy, hard work, and dedication to their community.
A respected businessman, Joe spent his life as the owner of Ocenasek Trucking in Perry. His work ethic was unparalleled, and he continued to drive his semi-truck until the age of 81, a true testament to his love for his work. Joe's commitment to his hometown and surrounding area was evident through his involvement with the Perry Township Planning Commission, the Perry Township Board of Review, and as a member of the Perry Chamber of Commerce. He was a man who never knew a stranger, always ready with a warm smile and a helping hand.
Joe's faith was a cornerstone of his life, guiding him in his daily actions and interactions with others. First at Congregational Church of Perry, where he served on several boards and also taught Sunday School. After that he served at West Locke Wesleyan and presently with Family Life Wesleyan of Williamston. He was a pillar in his community, known for his generosity and his willingness to support those around him.
His love for life was reflected in his many interests. Joe was a golfer and spent 30 winters enjoying the sunshine in Paradise Bay Estates, Bradenton Florida, where he also contributed to the community by serving on the Infrastructure Committee. His love for driving was not limited to his professional life; he took great pleasure in cruising around, chatting with everyone he met along the way whether in his Mustang or his pickup truck. His back road drives made him an expert on every "mom and pop" restaurant in Michigan. Joe had many stories to tell to anyone who would listen.
An enthusiastic Michigan State University sports fan, Joe never missed a chance to cheer on his team. But above all, he loved supporting his sons, grandchildren and great-grandchildren in their sports, always present on the sidelines, beaming with pride.
Joe is survived by his devoted spouse, Brenda; his sons, Brian (Stacie) Ocenasek and Dean (Kris) Ocenasek; his grandchildren, Kaelie (Andrew) Theile, Jacob (Kylie) Ocenasek, Rashelle (Zackory) Eubanks, Ashleigh (Kyle) Percival, Joseph (Jamie) Ocenasek, Samantha Ocenasek, and Nickolas Ocenasek; and his great-grandchildren, Logan, Walter, Elowen, Brynn, and Betty. He also leaves behind his siblings, James (Jeretta) Ocenasek, Betty (Walter) Brown, and Theresa (Dennis) Smith, who will all miss him dearly.
Joe's life was a beautiful mosaic of love, hard work, and community service. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew him and in the community he helped to build and support. He will be remembered not just for the things he did, but for the way he did them-with a generous heart and a friendly smile.
A memorial service to honor and celebrate his life will be held on Monday, December 1, 2025 at 11:00am at Family Life Wesleyan, 3720 Rowley Rd. Williamston. The Ocenasek family will receive friends on Sunday from 1:00pm to 4:00pm at Watkins Brothers Funeral Homes, Perry Chapel.
Donations in Joe's name can be directed to the Family Life Wesleyan Church
Online condolences can be shared at www.WatkinsFuneralHomes.com
