Joseph P. “Papap” Nowakowski, Age 80, Resident of Geneva, OH formerly of Willowick, OH, passed away Wednesday, February 15, 2012 at his home in Geneva, OH. Born on October 2, 1931 in Cleveland, OH to Stella (Siwek) & Peter Nowakowski; married Virginia Burek in Cleveland, OH on March 29, 1960.

Joseph was a highly talented salesman, former member of P.L.A.V. Club #31, Assumption Catholic Church, and a Korean War Veteran in the U.S. Navy. He was a terrific father, “Papap”, and enjoyed playing Scrabble, crossword puzzles, cooking, golfing, and polka music.

He is survived by Sons, Michael (Pamela) Nowakowski of Madison, OH, Matthew (April) Nowakowski, of Willowick, OH; Daughter, Michelle (Thomas) Dieterich of Geneva, OH; Grandchildren, Tawnya, Danielle, Jesse, Brittany, Joshua, Hunter, Jamie, Randi, and Noah; Honorary Granddaughter, Michele Seward; Great-grandchildren, Micah and Jocelyn; Brothers, Eugene (Wilda) and Ralph (Debbie) Nowakowski.

He was preceded in death by his wife, parents, and brother Raymond.

Friends will be received 11:00 AM – 1:30 PM on Saturday, February 18, 2012 at The Behm Family Funeral Home & Crematory, 175 S. Broadway, Geneva, OH.

Mass of Christian Burial will be following visitation at 2:00 PM at Assumption Catholic Church, 594 W. Main St, Geneva, OH.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.