Joseph Hayko

Joseph F. Hayko, 92, was peacefully called home to God on Thursday, May 11, 2023. Joe was born on December 4, 1930, and lived in Carteret before he and his wife, Angeline moved with their daughter to Port Reading in 1958. He is survived by his daughter, Eileen Gurney and son-in-law, Stanley M. Gurney of Port Reading. He will be reunited in heaven with his beloved wife of 65 years, as well as many family and friends that have preceded him in death.
Joe graduated from Carteret High School in 1948. With his interest in music, he was part of the school's marching band and swing band; as well as other local dance and band ensembles. Work began as a truck driver for Carteret China, then in 1950, he worked in Metal & Thermit (M&T) as an operator. In 1951, he left the company to join the Navy. He was a third class boiler repairman on an APA transport, traveling to Panama, Puerto Rico, Cuba and other points of interest. His love of music continued by playing the drums in the Navy Drum and Bugle Corps. Discharged from the service in 1955, he returned to M&T until an opportunity arose at E.I. DuPont's facility in Linden with jobs entailing a laborer, chief rigger, mechanical supervisor and captain of the fire, first aid and rescue team.
Back in the day, Joe built model boats, had an interest in photography, repaired televisions, chopped wood for his fireplace and tended to his vegetable garden. As his hometown community grew in the late 1950's into the 1960's, he was a trustee of the Port Reading Social Club and was on the committee organizing the first Port Reading First Aid Squad. He also held the position of first vice commander, past commander and Middlesex County officer of the day at St. James Post 615 of the Catholic War Veterans.
After retiring 40 years ago, he and his wife travelled periodically with the most memorable vacations being trips to Las Vegas, Alaska and Hawaii. East coast bus trips were also highlights.
Joe was extremely honored to serve his country, proud of his family and enjoyed his community. He was always outside caring for his many pets and neighborhood animals. He was a kind and generous soul who loved simple things. He was happy eating at home, especially when his daughter made pierogies, lasagna, soups and lemon meringue pie. He often said thank you, by showing his appreciation, support, love and friendship by helping people however needed, such as offering to listen, repairing machinery (especially lawn mowers), sharing his tools, or giving away vegetables from his garden. He always found a way to be frugal, creative, and repurposed many items. His life experiences gave him great stories to share. As one neighbor said, "he's a hoot." Joseph enjoyed his life and he will be truly missed.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, May 17, 2023 at St. Anthony of Padua R.C. Church in Port Reading followed by interment at St. Gertrude Cemetery in Colonia. Funeral services are under the direction of CHUBENKO FUNERAL HOME, 625 Port Reading Avenue, Port Reading, NJ 07064.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Port Reading First Aid Squad, 916 West Avenue, Port Reading, NJ 07064 or to your local Salvation Army.