Joseph E Ondrejka

Joseph E. Ondrejka, age 92, of Rockford, IL, a former long-time resident of Highland, IN, passed away on Thursday, August 20, 2015, in his home with his family at his side. He was born on June 5, 1923, in Whiting, Indiana, son of the late Joseph and Pauline Ondrejka. During World War II, Ondrejka enlisted with the 15th Air Force, 460th Bomb Group, completing 40 flight missions in Europe before his plane was shot down, and he became a P.O.W. He received 2 Oak Leaf Clusters, a Purple Heart, and a Distinguished Flying Cross for his service. A true Hoosier, he received a football scholarship from Purdue, earned a business degree from the University of Indiana, and was a season ticket holder for Notre Dame football. He enjoyed a fulfilling career in business eventually becoming owner and CEO of Centro-Metalcut of Rockford. Known by many for his loyalty and integrity, he will be remembered by his family as a devoted husband, loving father, and generous grandfather. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his daughter, Paulette Mary Ondrejka. He is survived by his wife, Theresa Marie Ondrejka; his daughter, Denise Bruce and her husband Steve; granddaughter Vanessa Waldrep and her husband Lee; and sister, Lillian Stofcik and her husband Robert.
At Joseph’s request all services will be held privately.