Joseph Jonas Mack

Defiance, Ohio mourns the loss of a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and proud Navy Veteran, Jonas Joseph Mack, who peacefully passed away on Thursday, October 12, 2023. Born in Ney, Ohio on March 19, 1930, Jonas's life was a testament to resilience, love, unwavering dedication to his family, country, and his deep faith, instilled in him by his parents, Christa and Clara Mack.

After graduating from high school in 1948, Jonas answered the call of duty and joined the United States Navy, where he served with honor during the Korean War aboard the U.S.S. Megara.

In his 93 years of life, Jonas found his truest joy in the love he shared with his wife, Margaret Ann (Hasch) Mack, whom he adored for an incredible 71 years. Together, they weathered life's challenges and celebrated its triumphs, creating a legacy of enduring love and commitment that inspired all who knew them.

Jonas leaves behind his daughter Kathy (Mark) Reynolds and son David (Kate) Mack, who were profoundly shaped by his wisdom, kindness, and unwavering support. His son, Steven (Janet)  Mack, preceded him in death in 2021, leaving a void in the family's heart that will forever be felt. 

Jonas was a loving grandfather to six grandchildren; Jessica Reynolds, Justin (Jaime) Reynolds, Christian (Amber) Greek, and Nick, Sydney and Emily Mack, and a cherished great-grandfather to four great-grandsons. His family was his pride and joy, and his legacy of love and wisdom will continue to live on through them.

In addition to his military and family life, Jonas was a member of Marysdale Catholic Church in his younger years, and became a dedicated member of St. Mary's Catholic Church in Defiance, Ohio, rarely missing a Sunday Mass. His unwavering faith was a cornerstone of his life, providing him with strength and solace.

Known for his warm greetings and passion, he was an avid fan of Notre Dame football and Detroit Tigers baseball and was a pillar of his community. His kindness, generosity, and love endeared him to all who knew him. He was a business owner of Wheel Horse Tractor and Overhead Door Company and retired as a carpenter from McDonald Construction. He was known to build projects from the ground up to the finished product. He was so proud of his many years of service with South Richland Volunteer Fire Department.

A celebration of Jonas's life will be held on Sunday, October 15, 2023 from 2:00 to 8:00 pm at Schaffer Funeral Home, 529 Jefferson Avenue in Defiance, with a Rosary Service at 2:00 pm. Friends and family will then gather to share stories, embrace one another, and pay tribute to a life well-lived. A Mass of Christian burial will be held on Monday, October 16, 2023 at 11:00 am at St. Mary's Catholic Church. An additional hour of visitation will be held before the service in the St. Joseph Annex. Fr. David Cirata and Deacon John Weber will officiate. Burial will follow the service at Riverside Cemetery. 
  
Memorials are suggested to St. Mary's Catholic Church. 

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