Joseph Michael Drakulich

Joseph Michael Drakulich, 85, of Columbus, passed away on May 3, 2025. He was born in East Liverpool, Ohio on December 9, 1939. He married Phyllis Paulson on May 8, 1964, and they would have celebrated 61 years of marriage this year.

Preceded in death by his mother, Mildred and Aunt Mara Roksandich, as well as his beloved son, Joe Drakulich.

Along with his loving wife, Joe is survived by son, Danny (Christy) Drakulich; grandchildren, Danielle, Darrick (Stephanie), Joey (Janelle), Kyle, Kody, Jude, Lexi; and great-grandchildren, Katya, Oaklyn, and Emryn. Brothers, George (Elaine) Drakulich, & Michael (Debbie) Drakulich; and sister, Kathy (Eli) Bratich. As well as many nieces and nephews.

Joe served in the United States Air Force for 20 years, working his way to the rank of Master Sergeant. It was during his service, while stationed in Grand Forks, North Dakota, he met and fell in love with Phyllis. They were soon married, had two sons and settled in Columbus, Ohio. After retiring from the military, he went on to work for General Electric. When he wasn’t working, Joe loved golfing and watching & playing sports. A devoted fan of the Steelers, Pitt Panthers & Pirates, he found joy in cheering on his favorite teams. But more than anything, Joe cherished time spent with his family. His home was filled with love. To his grandchildren, he was more than just a grandpa—he was their beloved Gedo, a proud nod to his Serbian roots. Joe had an unwavering love for them and was a constant, supportive presence in their lives. He proudly attended football and baseball games, swim meets, cheer competitions, concerts, and school events. Joe never missed a moment. They were the greatest joy of his life.

Joe also treasured his friendships. He loved Friday nights driving his beloved ’69 Camaro Z/28 to car meets with friends, coffee catch-ups with “the guys,” and lunches with his best friend, Tom Conroy. Over 40 years in the neighborhood, he became a friend to many and was always quick to share a story, a laugh, or a helping hand.

To know Joe was to know you were loved. His laugh, his big grin, and the way he always seemed to have just the right bit of wisdom, whether you knew you needed it or not. He will be deeply missed.

Immediate family will greet friends and family from 5 to 8pm, Monday, May 12, 2025; at Newcomer Cremations, Funerals, and Receptions – Northeast, 3047 E. Dublin-Granville Road, Columbus 43231. A Mass to honor Joe’s life will be held at 11am, Tuesday, May 13, 2025 at St. Stevan of Decani Serbian Orthodox Church, 1840 Cassady Avenue, Columbus, 43219. Burial to follow at Blendon Central Cemetery.

The Newcomer Family is honored to serve the Drakulich family. To leave a condolence, or to share a memory please visit the tribute section of the webpage.