Joe Henry Marak

Joe Henry Marak, 85, passed away peacefully on July 30, 2025, in Hamilton, Ohio. A devoted husband, brother, father, grandfather, uncle and friend, Joe will be remembered for his infectious sense of humor and deep love for those around him.

Born on November 15, 1939, in Syracuse, Kansas, Joe was the son of Charles T. and Mabel Marak. He was in the 1957 graduating class of Kendall High school in Kendall, Kansas and pursued higher education at Fort Hays State University in Hays, Kansas, where he laid the foundation for a lifelong passion for science, especially geology.

In 1968, Joe began his distinguished career as curator of the Limper Geology Museum at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. Over the next 34 years until his retirement in 2002, he dedicated himself to preserving and sharing the wonders of geology with students and visitors alike. His work left a lasting impact on the university community and inspired generations of professional and amateur geologists.

Outside of his professional life, Joe found joy in simple pleasures. He was an avid fisherman who cherished time spent by the water and a skilled gardener who took pride in nurturing life from the soil. These hobbies reflected his farming background, his patient nature and appreciation for the natural world.

Joe’s greatest joy came from his family. He was a loving and loyal husband to his late wife Betty (Schroll) Marak and a proud father to Steven G. Marak; Laura S. Jewett and her husband Eric; and Joseph S. Marak. His legacy continues through his beloved grandchildren: Kaitlin Thorne-Jewett, Lauren Thorne-Jewett, Kevin Jewett, and Rachel Jewett as well as Elijah Frazier. He also leaves behind his devoted sister Catherine Corley and her husband Carpe as well as their children, Christine M. Corley-Wallin and Wayne M. Corley. Joe enjoyed a lifetime of friendship with grade school partner in mischief, Merle Summers, of Blackwell, Oklahoma and treasured his friendship with Merle’s wife, Lou Ann, as well.  Joe was preceded in death by his good friend, Alice Winterrod of Darrtown, Ohio.

Those who knew Joe will remember not only his dedication to family and career but also his unending generosity and kindness. His quick wit brought laughter, and his quiet presence gave comfort—he was a true gentleman whose memory will be treasured always.

May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him.

Joe’s family would like to thank the caring, compassionate staff at Hospice of Hamilton.

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