Jozef F Gazdik

Jozef was born in Trencianske Teplice in Slovakia (then Czechoslovakia) on March 3, 1940.

He defected to Denmark in 1969 also passing through Germany on his way to the United States in search of his “American Dream”

He met Amparo in Washington DC in 1972 and they were married in 1974. Together they built a family as well as a large international circle of friends that they considered their local family.

While he was always a proud Slovak, Joe became an American citizen shortly after his arrival to the United States and was equally as proud to be an American. He could never listen to the Star Spangled Banner without being moved to tears.

A carpenter by trade, he formed part of the Union of Operating Engineers for many years. He was a hard worker, a perfectionist in every job, and never shied away from any task or project. He deeply enjoyed his work and was especially proud of his time at ABC News in Washington, D.C.

Joe was a dedicated family man and friend to all. He always had a warm smile and a firm handshake to offer. He was an avid sports fan, loving Soccer and Ice Hockey, above all. He was a friendly and respectful neighbor. He loved to travel, but his favorite place was definitely his home which he always opened to all, especially for barbecue and good steak.

His favorite title ever was grandpa or Tato as he was known by his grandkids, who he loved more than anything.

He is survived by his wife of 46 years Amparo, Daughters, Leyla and Lucy and his beloved grandchildren Ian, Jude, and Emma.

Visitation will be held on December 15, 2020 at 4:00 pm at Murphy Funeral Homes, 4510 Wilson Boulevard, Arlington, VA. Funeral Service will be held on December 16, 2020 at 12:00 pm at Queen of Apostles Catholic Church, 4401 Sano Street, Alexandria, VA. Graveside Service will be held on December 16, 2020 at 1:30 pm at Columbia Gardens Cemetery, 3411 Arlington Boulevard, Arlington, VA.