Obituary of Waleryan Sokotowski Jr.

July 17, 1948 - April 7, 2025

Waleryan “Joe” Sokotowski, Jr.  Age 76 of Dearborn, formerly of Wyandotte.

Loving father of Stephanie Sutherland.  Dear uncle of Michael Sokotowski, AJ Saleh and Erika Olson.  Great uncle of Conner Sokotowski, Kora Saleh and Sasha Saleh.  Preceded in death by parents Larry and Mabel Sokotowski and siblings Robert, Patricia (the late Louis), Kathy (the late Dennis) and Becky. 

Joe grew up in Wyandotte and attended Roosevelt High School. 

Family Tribute ~

Waleryan “Joe” Sokotowski Jr. was a beloved father, brother, uncle, cousin, friend, and hard-working soul whose presence left a lasting mark on all who knew him.

Born and raised in Wyandotte, Joe attended Roosevelt High School. From a young age, he worked alongside his father as a mechanic at their family gas station. Many of you may remember that humble station nestled in the parking lot of Blocks Greenhouse, at the corner of Eureka and Middlebelt in Romulus. After his father’s passing, Joe took the reins, continuing the legacy with pride and dedication.

Later on, Joe went to work for Townsend Neon Sign Company, where he spent many years as a sign welder. He was known for his craftsmanship, commitment, and strong work ethic—always the kind of person you could count on to get the job done right.

Joe had a passion for many things—but nothing could quite compare to his pride and joy: his stunning white 1975 Corvette. That car turned heads, but even that beautiful machine took a back seat the day his daughter, Stephanie, was born. From then on, his heart belonged to her in a way no car ever could.

Through his marriage to Stephanie’s mom, Joe inherited a son and two more daughters—gaining a ready-made family that he embraced with love and loyalty. He adored them from the very beginning, treating them as his own. He remained close with them throughout the years, always making time for visits and never missing a birthday call—even up to the very end.

Joe found peace and happiness in the simple things. Whether he was out fishing, barbecuing, cutting the grass just right, or listening to a Detroit Tigers baseball game or NASCAR race on the radio while enjoying the sun, he was in his element—outdoors, relaxed, and full of heart.

Joe was a laid-back man who would help anyone in need. He had a knack for remembering things from long ago and always had a funny story to tell. He was quick with one-liners that were sure to make you laugh. One of his all-time favorites came whenever someone asked how he was feeling—without missing a beat, he’d grin and say, “With my hands.” It never failed to get a chuckle.

Whether he was telling stories from the past, sharing a laugh and a beer around a barbecue, or taking a ride in his Corvette with the radio up and the top off—Joe knew how to enjoy life and make others smile while doing it.

Joe leaves behind a legacy of kindness, quick wit, and a deep appreciation for the simple things in life. He taught us that you don’t need much to be happy—just good company, a few laughs, and time spent doing what you love. More than anything, he loved being a dad, and the bond he shared with his daughter, Stephanie, was something truly special.

As we remember him, may we carry a piece of his spirit with us—by showing up for others, finding joy in everyday moments, and never passing up the chance to share a story, a smile, or a cold beer.

May you rest peacefully, surrounded by the love that will always remain. You will be deeply missed and forever cherished.