Joseph Pielech

Joseph Pielech, age 77, died in Tucson, Arizona on October 31, 2024.
Joe had an animated personality, was in constant motion, and displayed a genuine
sense of wonder. He treated everyone with the innate kindness which was at the core of
who he was. It was his super power.
Joe was born in Elizabeth, New Jersey to Walter and Gladys Pielech on February 18,
1947. He graduated from college in 1969, and soon after, joined the Air Force, serving
in Vietnam.
Upon his return from Vietnam, Joe made Tucson AZ. his home, and began work at the
United States Post Office, working in various jobs, including in maintenance and as a
locksmith and safe technician. At the post office, he met his wife, Janis (Jan) Bailey, his
beloved Angelpuff.
They dated for twenty-five years before marrying in great style in 2003 at the Grand
Canyon in a western-themed wedding with guests arriving in costume on an old steam
train. The celebrated their 21st anniversary this year.
The Grand Canyon was special to Joe and he hiked it numerous times with Jan, and
with other friends.
He and Jan rode the mules to the bottom of the canyon to Phantom Ranch. Later they
did an eighteen-day rafting trip in dory boats on the Colorado River.
In addition to being an avid hiker, Joe loved billiards and his immaculate
pool table took pride of place in the living room.
Joe enjoyed foreign travel with his wife, cousin Tom, and friend Peachey, visiting Tahiti,
Hawaii, Britain and Ireland, Italy, Germany, northern capitals of eastern Europe, and
even Russia.
Joe had a gift for friendship and his large circle of friends and family will miss him
greatly. He and Jan lived in So. Colorado each summer for the past 15 years making
many new friends, and sharing adventures.
Joe is survived by his wife Janis, and his sister Frances Dobrowolski (Matt). His cousin
Thomas Krakow and sons Paul Krakow (Nikki) Adam Krakow (Mindy) and his cousin
Leo Krakowiecki and daughters, Susan Fannick (Glen), and Lisa Easton (Peter) and
son Michael Krakowiecki.
Following a military service on November 15, 2024, Joe was interred at the Arizona
Veterans’ Cemetery at Marana AZ. A celebration of his life followed at his home.