Obituary

Major Joseph Dworniczak Jr.
April 29, 1938 – July 30, 2025

With profound respect and heartfelt remembrance, we announce the passing of Major Joseph Dworniczak Jr., United States Army (Retired), who departed this life on July 30. Born in San Diego on April 29, 1938, Joseph lived a life defined by service, honor, and devotion—to his country, his family, and his community.

Major Dworniczak served in the United States Army from 1961 to 1981, a twenty-year career marked by courage, leadership, and unwavering commitment. His foreign service included deployments to Korea (1964–1965), Vietnam (1965–1966), where he served as a Field Artillery Officer during critical operations, and Germany (1970–1973). His contributions in combat and command earned him the respect of his fellow soldiers and the gratitude of a nation.

His distinguished service was recognized with numerous awards and decorations, including:

Bronze Star Medal

Meritorious Service Medal

Army Commendation Medal (two awards)

National Defense Service Medal

Vietnam Service Medal with three Bronze Service Stars

Vietnam Campaign Medal

Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm (Unit and 2nd Award)

Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (Korea)

Parachutist Badge

Good Conduct Medal

Korean Presidential Unit Citation

Army Service Ribbon

Overseas Service Ribbon

Armed Forces Reserve Medal

After retiring from active duty, Joseph continued to serve his community through the Knights of Columbus, where he was a devoted member for many years. He embraced life with the same passion he brought to his service—finding joy in fishing, sailing, cooking, and traveling. His warmth, wisdom, and quiet strength touched all who knew him.

He is survived by a son, Joseph (Amy) Dworniczak III, a daughter, Caroline Dworniczak Chodil (Frank Amato / Mark Jacobs), the grandchildren Hannah (Skyler) Kolb, Natalie (Nicholas) Robin, Olivia Dworniczak, Sophia (Caleb) Hudgeons, Genevieve (Alex) Anria, Joseph Gabriel Dworniczak IV, Sophia Elizabeth Jacobs, Violet Anneliese Dworniczak, Norah Judith Jacobs, and great grandchildren Hudson Kolb, Mary Ella Robin, Annabelle Robin, Archer Kolb, Adaline Hudgeons, Griffin Robin, and Oliver White all who will carry forward his legacy of honor and love. He was preceded in death by his wife Judith J. Chodil, parents Guadalupe (Ramirez), Joseph Dworniczak Sr., and his siblings Raimundo Marquez, Louise Rutkowski, Mary Josephine Hoag, Maria Henrecetta Palozzi/McClister, and Albert Marquez.

Major Joseph Dworniczak Jr. will be laid to rest with full military honors, a tribute befitting a life of valor and virtue. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and fellow servicemen.