Obituary of Joseph F Yanik Sr.

Joe Yanik Sr., 65, of Gerry NY passed the final checkered flag on May 29, 2023. Born on November 6, 1957 in Jamestown NY, he was the son of Carl T. Yanik Sr. and Josephine (Yanik) States. Over the years Joe had been a hardworking employee for International Technology and Construction Company, Dahlstrom’s, Dawson Metal and Yanik’s Home Improvement. Joe had a passion and an incredible talent for racecar driving and won the Stateline and Eriez Speedways circuit points in 1991 with his good buddy and right-hand man, “Boone.” Joe was absolutely thrilled to be interviewed recently by the Stateline Historian on behalf of the Chautauqua County Sports Hall of Fame. Joe was also active in car shows, winning multiple awards with his classic Oldsmobile Cutlass at the Jamestown Cruise In. He was an avid collector of Hot Wheels and antique toys and spent over two decades vending at various flea markets. Nothing could keep Joe away from hunting. Not only did he have a great appreciation for nature which was showcased by placing in several trophy buck contests, Joe loved spending time with family during hunting season whether gathering for ‘Night Before Opening Day’ or the morning of the hunt and also participating in the Yanik Camp Archery Shoot. Besides hunting, Joe was best known for some other favorites: the Dallas Cowboys, Dale Earnhardt Sr., Pepsi, old tractors and trains and, of course, the Casino. Besides his mother Josie, Joe is survived by his loving companion Lisa Rura and her family; his sons Joseph Yanik Jr. and John (Amanda) Nelson; grandchildren Jaden and Julianna Yanik; siblings Rosanne (Gerald) Myers, Carl “Bucky” Yanik Jr., Debra (John) Passanise and Randy (April) Yanik Sr.; several nephews, nieces and cousins; close family and friends Michelle Swanson and family, Roger Krumrie and Maggie Fitzer; first wife Wanda Anderson; and his ever-faithful cat-buddy Walter. Besides his father, Joe was predeceased by his wife Kathy (Nelson) Yanik; stepfather Howard States; nephew Randy Myers; sister-in-law Amey Yanik; and “Uncle Tony” Scarry. Arrangements entrusted to Riccardi’s Hubert Funeral Home. Per request, there will be no visitation or service. By God’s Grace (and much of Joe’s insisting), family and friends were able to gather to celebrate WITH Joe the day before he went Home. Joe and his family would like to thank all the wonderful people who provided loving care and kindness throughout his journey, especially Hospice and Allegheny Cancer Center. To all of those who made the last few months truly memorable for Joe, we thank you. Send condolence by visiting www.hubertfuneralhome.com