Joseph Michael Wernik

Joseph Michael Wernik, age 75, of Florence passed away on Friday, August 4, 2023, at Baystate Medical Center in Springfield surrounded by his family. He was born in Northampton to the late Sigmond and Josephine (Sudnick) Wernik and was a 1965 graduate of Easthampton High School. Joe received a bachelor’s degree in education from Fitchburg State College in 1971. Following graduation, he taught English at Quabbin Regional High School and Easthampton High School for many years. Joe retired in 2010 after 21 years with the Department of Revenue in Springfield. 

Joe is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Susan (O’Neil) Wernik; his daughter Vanessa (Wernik) Raihill and her husband, Michael Gondek; his son Andrew Wernik; and his daughter Sarah (Wernik) McCarty and her husband, Brandon McCarty. He will be greatly missed by his grandchildren Molly, Elijah, Hannah and Jackson. He is also survived by his sister, Elaine (Wernik) and her husband Carl Majeskey of Georgetown, MA; his brother, Sigmond Wernik of Easthampton; and in-laws Stephen and Jean O’Neil of Plymouth, MA; John and Caron O’Neil of Jacksonville, FL; Brian and Theresa O’Neil of Beverly Shores, IN; Maureen and Phillip Sturgill of Alexandria, VA; Thomas and Diana O’Neil of Leesburg, VA; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Joe played soccer in high school and college, and for many years played softball and football for local teams. He especially enjoyed coaching and attending his children’s athletic events while they were growing up. He loved following the New York Giants, Boston Celtics and Red Sox. After retiring, Joe and Sue enjoyed traveling across the country to visit family, national parks and historic sites. Joe enjoyed supporting Andrew’s hobbies of kayaking and bike riding. 

The family wishes to thank the staff and nurses of Baystate Medical Center for the special care he received. Calling hours will be held at Mitchell Funeral Home in Easthampton on Wednesday, August 9th between 5pm and 7pm. The burial will be a private ceremony.

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