John Jay Mesko

John “Jay” Mesko was an incredible husband, father, and grandfather.  He left this world unexpectedly on Christmas Day, 2021.  He was born in Prince William County, Virginia to the late John Mesko and Loretta Lynch Mesko.  Growing up in a military family, he moved many times and was a true patriot with an immense love for his country.

Anyone who knew him could tell you that he had a special glow about him in the presence of children.  He was frequently just a “big kid” himself which lead him to a 40-year career as both an elementary and middle school teacher at Fraser Public Schools in Michigan.  During that time, he obtained his Master's Degree and also ran his own business in the summers called Playground Games.

He married Patricia “Pat” McDonald Mesko almost half a century ago.  For over 48 years, he was a loving husband who still adored her.  They enjoyed traveling together, camping trips, gardening, and raising their three children, which along with his now eight grandchildren, were the pride and joy of Jay’s life.

Jay was a man full of life.  He was selfless in every way, kind to every person he ever met, and filled a room with his radiance.  His laughter was contagious and this world will truly be a little dimmer without him. 

Mr. Mesko is survived by his wife, Patricia “Pat” McDonald Mesko; children, Amy Pelletier & husband Craig of Wake Forest, North Carolina, Lt. Col. Matthew Mesko & wife Caroline of Germany and Jeffrey Mesko & wife Lisa of Manchester, Michigan; grandchildren, Ava, Evelyn, & Violet Pelletier, Asher, Benjamin, & Jude Mesko and Franklin & Rutherford Mesko; siblings, Eric Mesko of Ferndale, MI, Emil Mesko & wife Andrea of Paso Robles, CA and Frank Mesko & wife Evelyn of San Antonio TX; sister-in-law, Paula Gilbert of Austin, TX; extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his brothers, Mike Mesko and Mark Mesko.

A memorial service will be held at 11 o’clock, Saturday morning, January 8, 2022 at Clancy Strickland Wheeler Funeral Home.  Inurnment will follow in Pine Forest Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Green Beret Foundation. https://greenberetfoundation.org/donate/

A service of Clancy Strickland Wheeler Funeral Home and Cremation Service.

www.cswfuneralhome.com