Joseph Fyda

Joseph Fyda, 81, of rural Rensselaer, IN passed away peacefully early Wednesday morning, March 29, 2023 surrounded by his family. He was born in East Chicago, IN on February 23, 1942, the son of Eric Fyda and Stella (Kozlowski) Fyda. He was a graduate of Wheatfield High School and was a Vietnam Veteran. He served as a mechanic in the U.S. Army, fixing trucks, cannons, jeeps and tanks.

On January 15, 1966 he married Vivian “Fay” Fyda. She preceded him in death on April 27, 2000.

Joseph worked for U.S. Steel in Gary, IN and was a self-employed mechanic. He worked hard to provide for his family. He was a great mechanic and was talented at fixing many things. He was a selfless man and tried to help out others whenever he could. He was very creative and talented at making things, taking photos, and making up jokes and jingles. Joseph had a wonderful sense of humor and liked to make people smile and laugh. He enjoyed fishing, working on cars, gardening and cooking.

He is survived by his four children: Joseph L. “Joe” Fyda of Wheatfield, IN, Stephanie (Matt) McClung of Avon, IN, Stacie (Dan) Daugherty of Morocco, IN and Elizabeth “Beth” (Robert) Gilmore of San Pierre, IN; one sister, Donna Beach of Universal City, TX; four grandchildren: Shawna (Mike) Schoon of Shelby, IN, Jacob Bookwalter of Morocco, IN, Rebecca Bookwalter (fiancé: Josh Bailey) of Indianapolis, IN, and Michelle Fyda of Rensselaer, IN.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Vivian; parents, Eric and Stella Fyda; brother John Fyda; and sister Mary Cook.

Visitation will be Wednesday, April 5, 2023 from 10 a.m. until time of funeral at noon (CDT) at Steinke Funeral Home of Rensselaer. Pastor Andy Gannon officiating. Burial with military honors will follow at Weston Cemetery.

Steinke Funeral Home is honored to be handling the arrangements. Memories, photos and condolences may be shared with the family at www.SteinkeFuneralHome.com.