Joseph W. Pieklo

Mr. Joseph Walter Pieklo, age 73, of Highland Avenue, Salamanca, New York died Saturday, December 22, 2012 at his home following a short illness.

Born January 2, 1939 in Lackawanna, New York, he was the son of the late Joseph Himes and Marion Pieklo. He was married to the former Martha Walter McLaughlin, who survives.

He was employed as a conductor for Conrail for fifty years prior to his retirement.

Mr. Pieklo was a life member of the Holy Cross Athletic Club, Loyal Order of the Moose Club in Randolph, New York, Salamanca Conservation Club, a social member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars John F. Ahrens Post #5296 and the Square Circle Club.

He enjoyed Big Band and Polka music and his favorite song was "Moving On" by Emmie Lou Harris. He was an avid traveler; he had his Private Pilot License and enjoyed riding his Harley. His hobbies also included meat processing and golfing, and he took pride in his home and lawn.

Surviving besides his wife are: 4 daughters, Barb (Keith) Roberts, Frewsburg, NY, Mary (Tom) LaCaze, New Orleans, LA, Janet (Dean) Nedvidek, Homan, WI, Sharon Pieklo, Whitehall, WI; 1 son, Chief HCM Robert (Tina) Pieklo, Harvey, LA; 4 step daughters, Sherrie (Jim) Geddes, Frewsburg, NY, Terrie (Bill) Frazier, Salamanca, NY, Cathy (Dan) Skiver, Allegany, NY, Tammy (Jon) Lichy, Salamanca, NY; 1 step son, John (Jody) McLaughlin, Bolivar, NY; 28 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren;1 brother, George "Bear" (Joan) Gray, Salamanca, NY; Joe's right-hand-man, Michael Duhan.

He was predeceased by a step daughter, Toni McLaughlin.

Friends may call in the O'Rourke & O'Rourke Inc Funeral Home, 25 River Street, Salamanca, NY on Saturday, December 29, 2012 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., at which time funeral and committal services will be held with Rev. Patrick Melfi, pastor of Our Lady of Peace Parish officiating.

The family suggests memorials to Homecare & Hospice or the American Cancer Society.

E-condolences can be sent to john@orourke-orourke.com or posted to facebook.com/onofh.