Obituary of Joseph Edward Priselac

Joseph Edward Priselac, Denver, CO, born March 11, 1935, left this world on July 6, 2023. He was preceded in death by his Mother and Father, Cecelia and Frank, and brothers, Frank and John, all of Denver, CO. He is survived in death by his loving wife of 64 years, Rosalie (Yakich) and four adoring children, Joseph (Shelley), Barbara Bailey (Marc), Vicki Blitch (John) and Stefanie Pierce (Rob). He will always be Papa to his four thriving grandchildren, Nicholas Frazzini (Elizabeth), Zachary Pierce, Tyler Pierce and Erica Bailey

Big Joe’s accomplishments and interests are numerous. He attended grades one through twelve at Denver’s Annunciation Parish. He attended Denver’s School of Art and answered the Selective Service call by completing an Army tour of duty, including the Reserves, spending time in Ft. Gordon Georgia and Ft. Sill Oklahoma.

His professional life featured 37 years spent with the Firestone Tire and Rubber Co. as a Merchandise Controller. A fun, post-retirement position he held was press box security at Colorado Rockies games at Coors field. Knowing Harry Carey was on the highlight list.

He had a secondary profession of sign painting that took him to varied and interesting locations, which assisted with the multiple interests of his family. Although it was sometimes tedious, he was very proud of his work and often pointed it out as he was driving through town.

His art was not limited to the doors of trucks or storefront windows. His watercolors, chalks and oils of scenery are legendary with the family, friends and acquaintances. His most passionate subjects were trains and streetcars. His work graces all the family’s homes and are published in several books, calendars and enlargements.

His art was fueled by another passion of his, railroading, both past and present. Many family weekend outings were focused on trekking the paths of Colorado’s Narrow Gauge Railroad system. This interest also led to a cross Canadian railroad tour and the ability to name and date many pieces of railroading equipment. There are too many stories here to share.

Again, his interests were numerous; fishing, home improvement projects, model airplane car and truck collection and newspaper clippings to name a few. Maybe his greatest interest was cheering on his grandkids from their sports field sidelines. His booming voice could often be heard above the noise, and he was always willing to help with a play call or referee’s actions.

We will miss his positive attitude and the mischievous grin that proceeded an incoming “Dad Joke”. Rest in peace Papa, you are never far from our thoughts and memories. We will take care of Mom until she is able to see her Sweetie again.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that you make a donation to your favorite charity in Joe's name