Joseph John Plank

Joseph John Plank, age 97, of Sarasota, passed away on September 5, 2024. Born on November 6, 1926 in New York, New York to Rosie Geosits and Michael Plank, Joe had a long and fulfilling life.

After serving in the Navy and earning a bachelor's degree, Joe had a successful career in sales, working for companies like Pocket books publishing, Nestle, Sears, and Dillard's. He was known for his friendly nature and strong work ethic, forming lasting friendships with his colleagues.

In 1955, Joe married Gloria Hayden, with whom he shared 59 years of marriage and raised two children, Joseph John Plank, Jr. and Irene Gloria Baxter-Plank. Joe had a deep appreciation for literature, the arts, and his Hungarian heritage.

Joe was preceded in death by his son Joseph, wife Gloria, sister Mary Lydick, and brother-in-law Albert Lydick. He is survived by his daughter Irene and her wife Linda Baxter-Plank, and their children, Hayden Christine Plank, and Steven Joseph Plank. He is also survived by his brother Robert and his partner Hal Merow, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

A service in memory of Joe will be held at Groover Funeral Home at Mansion Memorial Park in Ellenton, FL on September 10, 2024 at 11:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Planned Parenthood of Southwest and Central Florida, an organization Joe felt strongly about.

Joe will be remembered for his kind spirit, love for his family, and dedication to his community. May he rest in peace.