Joseph Andrew Mesaros

Born Oct. 14, 1947, in West Virginia to Andrew and Frances Mesaros, who preceded him in death, Mesaros was an avid learner who desired to know more about the world. This curiosity led him to travel extensively in his twenties, visiting Japan, Europe, and Africa. He also became a certified scuba diver and a certified pilot.

Mesaros had a profound passion for formal learning as well, earning multiple advanced degrees. He held a Bachelor of Science in Education, a Master of Arts in Mathematics, and a Doctorate in Optometry from The Ohio State University. He also earned a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Franklin University, a Master of Business Administration from Ashland University, and a Master of Science in Education from The University of Dayton. His professional certifications included those from the American Counseling Association and The International Association of Marriage and Family Counselors.

His diverse career path reflected his wide-ranging interests. He began as a teacher in Columbus Public Schools in the 1970s. In the 1980s, he opened a private practice as a doctor of optometry, and then established the Eyeglass Factory in the 1990s. Never afraid to pivot careers, Mesaros later used his mathematics degrees to become a para-actuary for Nationwide Insurance until his retirement in 2018. Even post-retirement, he continued to pursue new interests, starting his own property management company and spending his free time fixing up his rental properties.

A deeply devoted follower of Christ, Joseph was a long-time member of the former Columbus First Free Methodist Church, where he served in numerous leadership roles. More recently, he was a faithful member of Stonybrook United Methodist Church in Gahanna, Ohio.

Known for his willingness to lend a hand and offer a sympathetic ear, Joe was a friend to many. He will be deeply missed.

Survivors include his daughters, Christy Mesaros-Winckles (Andrew Winckles) and Jessica Pattapu (Jai Pattapu); and grandchildren, Gold’Ann Mesaros Winckles, William Winckles, Harvey Winckles, Edward Pattapu, and Eoin Pattapu.

A visitation for Joseph will be held Thursday, June 12, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Advantage Funeral & Cremation Services by Schoedinger b, 5554 Karl Road, Columbus, OH 43229, followed by a funeral service from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM.