Joseph Marsalka

Joseph P. Marsalka, age 89, died peacefully on August 21st, 2017 at the Sanctuary at Tuttle Crossing.  He was born September 4, 1928 in Lorain, OH to Joseph and Mary Marsalka.  He is survived by his wife Mary B. Marsalka;  brother-in-law, Ralph (Anne) Burson; daughter-in-law, Kathy (Rob) Felty and son-in-law, Paul (Kim) Raines; and grandchildren, Kristin Marsalka, Matthew Marsalka, Joseph Raines and Benjamin Raines.  He is preceded in death by sisters, Olga (Glenn) Schaaf, Julia (Andrew) Kerchmar and children, Dr. David Marsalka and Elizabeth Raines. Joe lived a long and fulfilling life as an entrepreneur and inventor as well as a loving husband and father.  When he first started school he spoke only Czech but mastered English and graduated from Lorain High School. After serving in the Marines in WWII, he graduated from Ohio University.  He met Mary at Ohio University and they were married for 66 years. He received his law degree from Cleveland Marshall College of Law while working at Carling Brewery and Chevrolet Cleveland. Joe and Mary moved to Columbus where Joe started with Industrial Nucleonics.  He eventually became their Corporate Council.  He was also cofounder of Ray Data, started Measurement Instruments, and manufactured modems.  He founded Scriptel, one of the first companies to develop the technology to write text on computer screens. Never one to shy away from an opportunity, Joe brought Columbus a professional sports team, the Columbus Thunderbolts. He also brought the blind side mirror to market for cars, which he hoped would save many lives. Joe served on the Fund Board of Ohio University and was honored as an outstanding alumni.  He also was a member of the Ohio Commodores. Joe and Mary cofounded Biddies Coach House, a tea room in Dublin, OH which they operated for nearly 30 years. With a love of all sports, one of Joe’s favorite activities was coaching Little League and American Legion baseball. He enjoyed spending time with the players and was an inspiration to the young people he coached.  He enjoyed golfing and watching his favorite baseball team, the Cincinnati Reds. Joe travelled the world throughout his life, often conducting business in Europe, China and Japan.  But as Mary said so often, “He brought the world to us!”  His wife and children often travelled with him and they often hosted guests from around the world. Joe will be remembered and missed by his family and friends.  The family wishes to thank the kind and competent caregivers at The Sanctuary at Tuttle Crossing and Joe’s favorite friend and caregiver, Danita.  A private service will be held at Cave Hill Cemetery in Louisville, KY.  In lieu of flowers please consider a memorial donation to The Sanctuary at Tuttle Crossing, 4880 Tuttle Rd., Dublin, OH 43017, 614-760-8870.