Mr. Joseph R. Ziemba

UTICA – Mr. Joseph R. Ziemba, age 89, passed away peacefully on November 6, 2025, surrounded by members of his family.
Born in Utica on March 10, 1936, Joseph was the son of the late Stanley and Eugenia "Jenny" (Maciejewski) Ziemba. A lifelong resident of the area, he graduated from T.R. Proctor High School with the Class of 1954. Following graduation, Joseph honorably served his country in the U.S. Army. He took great pride in his service and remained loyal and devoted to his nation throughout his life. Joseph was a man shaped by his heritage, his country, and, most importantly, his faith.
It was evident that Joseph loved his children and was dedicated to putting them on a path he believed would bring them happiness and success. Becoming a grandfather brought a new light into his life. His love and dedication to his grandchildren was equal to that which he afforded his children.
Joseph was a highly intelligent, independent and determined man. He was a self-taught carpenter, electrician, plumber and automotive repair man. He enjoyed meticulously completing projects not only in his own home but for his friends and family as well.
Joseph spent nearly 50 years with the Utica National Insurance Group, holding many positions over the years, from Programmer to Analyst. He made numerous contributions during his tenure and performed groundbreaking work in the technology industry. His expertise was highly regarded and sought after. He acted as a consultant after retirement.
Joseph was a devoted member of the American Legion Utica Post 229, attending every meeting and event he could. He was also deeply involved with the Yankee Cadets Drum and Bugle Corps, managing equipment, hosting bingo events, raising funds, and helping keep the program thriving alongside the Mezza, Servello, and Sardina families-who became some of his closest lifelong friends. To this day, alumni remember him as an inspiring role model.
Sports were a part of his entire life, from playing basketball in school to attending his grandsons' games, to being a diehard New York Giants fan. In earlier years, he found pleasure and camaraderie in a bowling league with his coworkers.
Joseph was a devoted parishioner of St. Peter's Church for decades, attending weekly Mass. He had a deep and abiding love for his faith in God. In later years, he became a parishioner of Holy Trinity Church, where he continued his lifelong practice of daily prayer. He always contributed generously to his churches and many other charities, and considered it an honor to do so.
Joseph is survived by his son, Richard (Kelly McCarthy); daughter, Valerie (Robert McLean); his grandsons, Bryce McLean and Xavier McLean; great-grandson, Eliajah McLean; with special mention of Morganne McLean, for the care she provided him and to her daughter Leah with whom he shared a special bond; sister, Mary Lou (John Sobieraj(deceased)); brother, Eugene (Kathy); sister-in-law, JoAnne Ziemba; many nieces, nephews; and many close friends including Larry, and Frank. He was predeceased by his grandson that he loved so very much, Eliajah; and his siblings, Alice "Alicia" Ziemba, Edward (Shirley) Ziemba, Clara (Irwin "Sax") Wilson, Martha (Anthony) Dosiek, Elizabeth "Betty" (William) Sobieraj, and Stanley Ziemba.
The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to The Rome VA Clinic and the Syracuse VA Hospital for the compassionate care they provided to Joseph over the years. They would also like to give special thanks to the ER staff at Wynn Hospital for the comfort and support they offered to Joseph and his family.
Joseph's life was remembered by his family in a private setting. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Joseph's Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life, which will commence on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at Holy Trinity Church. Military Honors will be conferred by the U.S. Army. There will be an opportunity to greet the family at the conclusion of Mass. In lieu of floral offerings, memorial contributions in Joseph's honor may be made to Disabled American Veterans online at www.dav.org/donate; envelopes will also be available at the service. Interment will follow in St. Stanislaus Bishop and Martyr Cemetery.