Obituary of Joseph Wilkaitis

Joseph John Wilkaitis, age 89, of Ocala, FL passed away on Friday, December 18, 2009. He was born in Spring Valley, IL on July 30, 1920. Mr. Wilkaitis graduated from the University of Illinois, earning both a Bachelor's and Master's degree. Mr. Wilkaitis was an Educator and during his career was awarded Teacher of the Year for the Miami/Dade County School System in 1972. He was a member of the Lions Club, Elks Club, Loyal Order of the Moose and the Knights of Columbus. He was also a Catholic and a member of Blessed Trinity Catholic Church, Ocala. Survivors include his daughter Stacia Wilkaitis, former wife and friend Mary Johnson, sister Margaret Szewezyk, and several nieces and nephews. A memorial mass celebrating his life will be scheduled at Blessed Trinity Catholic Church, Ocala, in early January. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the National Federation for the Blind. Arrangements are being handled by Hiers-Baxley Funeral Services, Ocala.