Joseph Steven “Joe” Lewczak, 62, passed away on February 17, 2025, in Flemington, New Jersey.

Born on February 5, 1963, in Elizabeth, New Jersey, Joe was a beloved son, brother, father, grandfather, and friend whose presence brought laughter and warmth to those around him.

Raised in Elizabeth alongside his eight siblings, Joe later found his way to Hunterdon County, where he developed a deep connection with the land. Though a city boy at heart, he earned the affectionate nickname “Farmer” for his dedication to working the fields. He had a particular fondness for soybeans and baling hay and took great pride in his ability to barter—often walking away from a deal with the upper hand while the other party unknowingly ended up with a broken leaf blower.

Joe was employed by the City of Plainfield Department of Public Works as a specialist in tree maintenance—a true “branch manager” in every sense. His work reflected his hands-on nature and love for tinkering. Whether fixing machinery or negotiating trades, he had an uncanny ability to make things work in his favor.

A man of many passions, Joe enjoyed gambling, farming, and working with his hands. He had an extensive knowledge of motorcycles and music—two lifelong loves that brought him immense joy. His quick wit and mischievous sense of humor made him a true jokester who could lighten any room. To know Joe was to love him, even if his antics sometimes drove people crazy.

Joe cherished his family deeply. He was a proud father to his daughter, Samantha Jo Balunis (Lewczak), whom he adored beyond measure. He instilled in her the value of hard work and the belief that she could accomplish anything she set her mind to. Joe also treasured his grandson, Logan Patrick Balunis. Though their time together was brief, it was filled with love and unforgettable moments that will be forever cherished by those who loved him.

Joe’s lifelong love and the mother of his daughter, Gena Mancini, held a special place in his heart. Their bond remained strong through life’s ups and downs as they co-parented their daughter and supported each other unconditionally. Gena always felt protected in Joe’s care and stood by him through every chapter of life—including his final days. Their unwavering connection is a testament to the kind of love and friendship we all hope to experience.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Frederick and Loretta Lewczak; brother, Frederick Lewczak, Jr.; and sister, Robin “Gigi” Marino.

Joe is survived by his daughter, Samantha Balunis (Brady); grandson, Logan Balunis; lifelong love, Gena Mancini; and his siblings, Cynthia Allen (Roger), Sharon Triola (Anthony), Bonnie Lewczak, April Lewczak-Echevarria (Luis), Tara Lewczak (Doug), Kevin Lewczak (Alvira), and brother-in-law, Joe Marino. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews who lovingly called him “Uncle Screwball,” great nieces and nephews, as well as countless friends—including his farm family—who shared in his adventures and endless tinkering. His beloved dogs, Cooper, Winnie, Daisy, Duke, and Gracie will also miss him.

Joe was truly one of a kind—a man whose humor, generosity, and larger-than-life personality left an indelible mark on everyone he met. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

Joe will lie in repose where family and friends will gather to reflect and celebrate his life on Sunday, February 23, 2025, from 1:00-3:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Wright & Ford Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 38 State Highway 31, Flemington, NJ.

Interment is private.

You are encouraged to visit Joe’s permanent life celebration site at www.wrightfamily.com to light a candle of hope, leave messages of condolence, share words of comfort and recollection, and post photographs of his life.

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Wright & Ford, your local, family owned & operated “Life Celebration Home”

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