Joseph Michael Kuleszynski

With his family beside him and love surrounding him, Joseph Michael Kuleszynski peacefully entered the Lord’s grace on May 13th, at Johns Hopkins University Hospital, at the age of 77. In that quiet moment, God, in His compassion, released him from his roles as a devoted father, husband, grandfather, and faithful witness to this world. It marked the end of a sacred extension of life — a gift sustained by his deep love for family, his will to live, and the steady presence of his beloved wife, who walked beside him every step of the way.

Born on June 6th, 1947 to Joseph Kuleszynski Sr. and Harriet Kuleszynski (née Szelagowski), Polish immigrants who built a new life in Jersey City, New Jersey, Joseph Michael Kuleszynski was raised with traditional values, quiet faith, and a strong moral foundation. As a first-generation American and younger brother to his sister Rita, he grew into a curious and self-motivated young man, drawn to the innovations of his era — radio, television, sports, and the rhythm of a changing world.

Dedicated to lifelong learning, Joseph Michael Kuleszynski began his academic journey at Saint Peter’s Preparatory School before earning a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Saint Peter’s College and a Master of Arts in Psychology from New York University. His intellectual rigor paved the way for a diverse and impactful career: he launched his professional life as an auditor with Haskins & Sells (now Deloitte), advanced through key roles at Alpha Metals and Sunham & Co. USA, and even combined his twin passions for technology and sports as an internet chat host for ESPN.com. He completed his professional journey with 30 years of distinguished service as an internal auditor for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, contributing his expertise to major civil projects with precision and integrity.

Though he was proud of his work, family was his greatest purpose. After marrying his first wife, Eileen Shelton, he welcomed his only son, Joseph Ezra Kuleszynski. He gave himself fully to fatherhood — coaching, mentoring, and building a life that encouraged exploration, empathy, and learning. Even amid personal hardship, including his first wife’s decline and their eventual separation, Joseph Michael Kuleszynski remained steadfast, providing stability and love through every challenge.

In time, he found a second chapter of joy with his wife of over 33 years, Pei Kuleszynski, whose strength and love gave him companionship and peace. Together, they created a life rooted in everyday joys — meals, sports, quiet evenings — and a shared devotion to family and peaceful existence. As his health declined, he defied expectations, living well beyond medical predictions thanks to the care of Pei, her daughter Erika, and her spouse Madison.

His greatest joy in later years came from becoming a grandfather to Laina and Leon, whom he adored and lovingly referred to as his “superheroes.” Their presence gave him purpose, hope, and a sense of completion.

Those who knew Joseph Michael Kuleszynski will remember his boundless curiosity, his deep love for stories, and his quiet, unwavering devotion to those he loved. Each day, he sought that electrifying sense of being alive, embodying the spirit of one of his favorite songs—knowing him was truly more than a feeling.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Kuleszynski Sr. and Harriet Kuleszynski (née Szelagowski), and his sister, Rita Waleski (née Kuleszynski). He is survived by his loving wife of over 33 years, Pei Kuleszynski; his son, Joseph Ezra (Jaclyn Anne) Kuleszynski; his grandchildren, Laina Kuleszynski and Leon Kuleszynski; his stepdaughter, Erika Young, her spouse, Madison Brady and their son JB Gates Jr.; along with extended family, dear friends, and a legacy of kindness and quiet strength.

A visitation for Joseph will be held Tuesday, May 20, 2025 from 2 to 4 PM at John M. Taylor Funeral Home, 147 Duke of Gloucester Street, Annapolis, Maryland 21401. A funeral service will occur in the funeral home chapel on Wednesday, May 21, 2025 at 10 AM. Interment Lakemont Memorial Gardens, 900 W Central Ave, Davidsonville, MD 21035.

The family welcomes flowers as expressions of sympathy and gratitude for Joseph Michael Kuleszynski’s life and memory.