AUSTINTOWN - Joseph John Ceja, 90, passed away early Friday morning, Feb 24, 2017, at his home following an extended illness.

Joseph, who was known to all as "Joe" or "C.J.," was born Nov. 20, 1926, in Youngstown, a son of the late Anthony L. and Stephanie Aguilera Ceja, and was a lifelong area resident.

He attended The Rayen School, and was drafted into the U.S. Army at the age of 18. Joe became a paratrooper with the Army's 81st Airborne Division and proudly served his country during World War II.

C.J. worked for U.S. Steel at the Ohio Works for 25 years, retiring when the mill closed, and later worked for several area contractors.

Baptized a Catholic, Joe and his family were former members of St. Brendan Parish in Youngstown.

Mr. Ceja leaves his beloved wife of 64 years, Theresa M. Lentine Ceja, whom he married July 22, 1952; two daughters, Linda Jean Congemi (David Agnone) of Poland and Karen J. Ceja Lough of Austintown; three grandchildren, Dean (Amanda) Congemi, Melanie Congemi Stitt, and Daziana Marie Velasquez; four great-grandchildren, Preston and Cassie Stitt, and Connor and Caleb Congemi; a sister, Angeline Montmore of Youngstown; a son-in-law, Robert Velasquez; many nieces and nephews; and many extended family members.

Joe was preceded in death by two brothers, Anthony and James Ceja, and two sisters, Josie Infante and Mary Gruber.

Family and friends may call from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 28, at Kinnick Funeral Home, 477 N. Meridian Rd., Youngstown, where services will follow at 7 p.m.

Private interment will take place Wednesday, March 1, at Resurrection Cemetery in Austintown.