Joseph Rodney Lesko, age 72, of Groveport, OH, passed away Sunday, March 2, 2025. Joe was born February 9, 1953 in Kansas City, Missouri, to his parents Joseph and Dorothy Lesko. Joe is preceded in death by his wife of 46 years, Donna (Campbell) Lesko. Joe is survived by his children, Tammy Lesko, Joey Lesko, Michael (Melanie) Lesko, and Jason (Amy) Lesko; 14 grandchildren, Harmony, Cherelle, Mia, Hannah, Naomi, Lena, Abigail, Campbell, Elliott, Phoebe, Elijah, Gianna, Zelie and Francesca; 1 great granddaughter, Lilly Mae; fur-baby grandchildren, Kody and Luke; 3 sisters, Mariann (Joe) Stewart, Karen (Roger) Timmons, Kathy (Mike) Frank; numerous nieces, nephews, family members and good friends.

Joe proudly served in the US Air Force for 20 years as a Firefighter. He served at Rickenbacker Air Force Base (AFB), Pease AFB, Eielson AFB and retired from Andrews AFB. Joe and Donna relocated back to Groveport where he continued to serve for the Groveport School District and ended his career as a State of Ohio Firefighter at Rickenbacker AFB for 20+ years. Joe touched many lives through his 40+ years serving as a firefighter.

Through the years, Joe enjoyed fishing and hunting in Alaska, as well as coming back home to Columbus for many hunting trips with his father. On his days off, Joe was always found outside, either putzing around in the garage, or tending to his garden. Joe loved spending time with his 14 grandkids, and loved becoming a great grandparent just a few months ago.

Joe, although a little intimidating on first approach, held a love for people that serves as a model to all. Hungry? Come to the house and Joe will feed you. Tired? Come to the house and Joe will give you a place to sleep. Something on your mind? Come to HIS house, the garage, and have a beer with him while sharing what's on your heart. And when you're done, be sure to use the fun fun funnel before heading out. Trying to start a garden for your family? Come on out back with him as he teaches you his expertise on growing garlic, onions, beets, potatoes, cucumbers, tomatoes and so much more. House have a problem? Give him a call and he'll teach you the hard work and creativity it takes to solve the many issues of owning a house. Joe's love, for so many, will continue with the time he spent with friends and family sharing his joys in life.

Joe was married to Donna for nearly 46 years, and were inseparable partners. They navigated life's challenges together, that only helped their love grow stronger with each passing year. Joe and Donna's marriage was a cornerstone of their lives, filled with tears and laughter, countless trips to Connecticut and grandchildren's events, and unwavering support for all of their family. Their home of over 27 years, was central to where many memories were made where they always lovingly hosted family gatherings and holidays where laughter and shared meals around the dining room table were central to the celebrations.

Visitation will be Friday, March 7, 2025 from 2 p.m. until time of Funeral Mass at 4 p.m. at St. John XXlll Parish, 5170 Winchester Southern Rd. in Canal Winchester, OH, 43110. Arrangements entrusted to the Myers-Woodyard Funeral Home, Groveport, OH. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Kobacker House, 3595 Olentangy River Road, Columbus, OH 43214, to support their compassionate hospice care and services.