Joseph Stanley Gresser

Joseph Stanley Gresser, born December 12, 1937, in Wyandotte, Michigan, passed away peacefully on March 6, 2025, at the age of 87. The youngest of seven siblings, Joe was welcomed into the world by his loving parents, Clara and Philip Gresser. He grew up on Superior Street in Wyandotte, surrounded by a lively family that shaped his early years.
Joe attended Wyandotte Mt. Carmel for his K-12 education, where his exceptional talent on the baseball field earned him a scholarship to Western Michigan University. A true ballplayer, Joe honed his skills playing alongside his brothers and friends in Wyandotte, later leading his college team to top-ten finishes in the College World Series twice. His athletic prowess earned him a place on Western Michigan's Top 50 Athletes of All Time list and induction into Wyandotte's Sports Hall of Fame. Beyond baseball, Joe excelled in bowling, achieving multiple 300 and 299 scores before age 25, and later in life, he took up golf, recording an astonishing 15 holes-in-one.
Joe dedicated much of his life to education and mentorship, serving as a counselor in the West Bloomfield School District for 30 years. His passion for sports extended to his career, where he coached golf, baseball, basketball and volleyball, inspiring countless young athletes with his knowledge and encouragement. For many summers, Joe also worked as a driver's training instructor, patiently guiding new drivers with the same care he brought to all his endeavors. He made his home in Livonia, Michigan, where he and his beloved wife, Judith Tobin Gresser, raised their two sons, Mark and Paul. An avid card player, Joe loved nothing more than gathering with family, friends, and neighbors for lively games of cribbage, euchre, pinochle, hearts, bridge, and the family favorite, "Oh Hell." Those card games were a cherished tradition, filled with laughter and connection. Joe and Judy also enjoyed attending art shows and displaying her paintings until her passing in 1991.
Joe will be remembered as a dedicated and caring husband, father, and grandfather, leaving behind a legacy of love and strength. He is preceded in death by his wife, Judith, and his parents, Clara and Philip. He is survived by his two children, Mark and Paul Gresser, and six grandchildren-Philip, Ty, Nate, Emily, Sydney, and Melanie Gresser. A heck of an athlete, a devoted educator, and an even better man, Joe's impact will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and community.
A service to celebrate Joe's life will be held on April 5, 2025, at Czopek Funeral Home in Wyandotte from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., followed by a luncheon for all attendees at the nearby Polonus Restaurant. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Joseph, please visit our floral store.