Joe Paskoski

Paskoski, Joe, of Fort Lauderdale passed away on April 15, 2008. Son of Polish immigrants, George & Mary Paskoski, he worked his way through college and served his country as a Naval Aviator during WWII. As a fighter pilot, he was a decorated war hero, earning the Navy's highest honors, the Navy Cross, the Distinguished Flying Cross, and the Silver Star. At 89 years old, he was one of the last surviving "aces" of WWII. He went on to serve as Naval Attaché to the U.S. Ambassador in Iran. He spoke fluent Russian and was active in Naval Intelligence. Joe also distinguished himself as the leader of the first group to track a hurricane using radar at Key West Naval Air Station in 1947. He continued to lead a distinguished career until he retired from the Navy with the rank of Commander in 1967. Joe went on to become a successful stockbroker and retired from Merrill Lynch in 1991. An avid sportsman, Joe shot "sporting clays" until befallen by a stroke in May of 2006. He was an inspiration to all who participated in that sport. With 88 year old eyes, he could see the smallest "chip" off the target that no one else could see. Until that time, he had a sharp and inquisitive mind, reading three newspapers a day and leading an active life. Joe was predeceased by his wife, Virginia, and son, Gregory. He is survived by his companion, Karen Wardlaw; his sons, Joe and wife, Jemette, Steve and wife, Judy; his daughter, Sue and husband, John; his brother, John and wife, Lucy and sons John and Erik; Karen's son, Stuart; his grandchildren: Joey and wife, Kristine, Heidi, Lucy, David, Erik and Stephanie; and his great-grandchildren Maddie and Tanner. Joe will be buried with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery, July 2, 2008.