Joseph Thomas Peterka

Joseph T. Peterka of Elkhart, passed away at the age of 61, on Monday, September 27, 2021 at his home.

Joseph was born on September 24, 1960 in Red Wing, MN to Frederick E. Peterka and Margaret “Peggy” Peterka. He is preceded in death by his parents.

Joseph is survived by his brother Peter Peterka, and sisters Kathi Peterka, Karolyn Phillipp and Lynn Peterka. He also was a proud uncle of five nieces and nephews and two grand nephews. He was a devotee of pug dogs and left behind his beloved Milly and Mally.

Joseph studied Geology at DePauw University where he received a B.S. He received an M.S. in Oceanography from Old Dominion University.  Joseph was very knowledgeable in many areas of science and enjoyed learning his entire life.  After his father’s passing, he took over the management of the family business, RV Oasis in Elkhart. He also enjoyed a second career in education as a science teacher in local schools.  For the past ten years, Joseph worked for Global Six Sigma as an Online Learning Management Specialist. For many years to come, people will be able to learn from courses Joseph produced. 

Joseph was a great athlete participating baseball, wrestling, ice hockey, fishing, hiking and scuba diving. “Number 71” excelled in high school and college football as an offensive and defensive lineman. He was known for his exceptional speed and agility. His parents enjoyed watching their son play on game day.

He visited the shooting range and was adept with firearms. He regularly spent fun evenings playing games of strategy.

He also was a person of many hobbies. He loved space and dreamed of going to Mars. The SpaceX Starbase Live Plex was always open on his computer. He loved walking his dogs and playing with them. He also constructed thousands of model airplanes, Lego collections, train sets, and rockets. Flying his drone was enjoyable for Joseph and his close friends. He visited the shooting range and was adept with firearms. He regularly spent fun evenings playing games of strategy.There will be no services for Joe. Per his wishes, he will be cremated.

Billings Funeral Home 812 Baldwin St. Elkhart, Indiana is assisting the family.

Donations in Joseph’s memory may be donated to his favorite charity, ADEC for persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities at www.adecinc.com/donate/.

For those who wish to send a condolence or share memories, they may do so at www.billingsfuneralhome.com.

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