Joseph John Valitchka

Joseph John Valitchka, age 82, of Greenville, South Carolina, passed away on Wednesday, November 26, 2025 at Palmetto Patriots Home, following four and a half years of courageous struggle after a debilitating stroke. Born on January 10, 1943, in Oconto, Wisconsin, he was the son of the late Marie and Roy Valitchka.
Joseph's life was defined by service, resilience, faith, and deep devotion to his family. He graduated from the University of Wisconsin--Madison School of Business and served with distinction as a Captain in the United States Navy Reserve. He completed Navy Officer Candidate School and the U.S. Department of Defense Information Officers School. At the age of 25, he survived wounds sustained during a firefight in the Mekong Delta and was awarded the Purple Heart Medal for his bravery.
His years aboard the USS Winston sparked a lifelong passion for adventure and forged friendships that lasted a lifetime. Joe later commanded reserve units and built a successful civilian career, serving in vice-president roles in sales and marketing.
Joe cherished the outdoors. He loved sailing small-boat regattas on the Chesapeake Bay with his daughter, Kimberly, and he shared ski adventures with his middle daughter, Stacey, on the slopes of Alta, Keystone, Aspen, Vail, and Arapahoe Basin. He also treasured time fishing and deer hunting at his log cabin in Lakewood, Wisconsin--especially alongside his son, Chad.
A man of deep Catholic faith, Joe drew strength and purpose from his relationship with God. He was active in the Knights of Columbus (4th Degree), Cursillo, the Military Order of the Purple Heart, the South Carolina Reserve Officers Association, and was a devoted member of the Prince of Peace Catholic Church. His faith shaped his life, and he shared his wisdom and spiritual guidance generously with all who were close to him.
Joe was also a lifelong lover of books and music, passions that reflected his curious mind and appreciation for learning and beauty.
As a young man he earned the rank of Eagle Scout and was elected to the Brotherhood of the Order of the Arrow--early signs of the leadership and integrity that defined him.
Joe is survived by his loving wife, Sue Valitchka (Borcherdt); his daughters, Kimberly and Stacey Valitchka; and his son, Chad Valitchka (Jennifer), and grandson, Brave Valitchka.
He faced his final years with the same determination that defined his entire life. His outgoing personality earned him the affectionate nickname "Talker," and he will be forever remembered and deeply missed.
A Rosary will be held at 11:35 a.m. on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at Prince of Peace Catholic Church. A Funeral Mass will immediately follow at 12:00 p.m. at the church.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Prince of Peace Catholic Church at 1209 Brushy Creek Rd, Taylors, SC. 29687.
Friends are encouraged to share their favorite memories of Joe with the family by clicking on the button labeled "Share A Memory."