Master Sergeant Joseph Mekosh, 93, of Clearwater, FL, passed away December 31, 2025, from complications of Alzheimer’s and dementia.

Born January 8, 1932, in Centralia, PA, he was the son of George  and Mary (Kuchtanich) Mekosh.  Joseph dedicated his life to his Air Force military career and was a veteran of the Korean and Vietnam Wars that retired with honor.  Joseph  was a gentle man of immense bravery and strength,  who served his country with distinction.  Joseph possessed a contagious smile and kind eyes that accompanied his love for animals, baseball, football, music, and an opportunity to laugh or dance.   In addition, he was a life member of the Centralia American Legion and will be remembered as a loving husband, father and hero.

Joseph was preceded in death by his first wife, Evelyn Reynolds Mekosh; his second wife, Elsa Pezzner Mekosh; brothers John and George Mekosh; and sister Anna Mekosh Martin.

Joseph is survived by his daughters, Evelyn J. Mekosh and Lisa Richards and her husband, Dwayne; his grandchildren Carsen, Dalton, Lake and Kyle and many beloved nieces, nephews and great grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to  Suncoast Hospice Care Center North Pinellas, www.suncoasthospice.