Joseph William Placek "Joe Bill", 80, of Swanton, Nebraska passed away on January 1, 2017. He was born November 7, 1936 in Beatrice, Nebraska to William and Lydia (Houser) Placek . Joseph graduated from Swanton High School in 1954, he then entered the United States Army and served during the Korean War from January 19, 1955 to October 24, 1957. After returning home he farmed in the Swanton area and also worked for Petersen Manufacturing Company /American Tool Company for 25 years. Joseph married Pauline Blobaum on June 25, 1971 in Beatrice, Nebraska.
Joseph was a member of the Swanton United Methodist Church, Swanton Volunteer Fire Department and the Swanton American Legion Post #258 where he served as the Post Commander from 1979-1982 and from 2005-2016. He also served as the Saline County Commander in 1984, 1985 and 1999.

He enjoyed gardening, his horses, polka music, ethnic Czech food, western shows and most of all his grandchildren.

Joseph is survived by his loving wife of 45 ½ years, Pauline of Fairbury; daughters and sons-in-law, Laura A. and Todd Eisnach of DeWitt, NE, Holly and Perry Lane of Grand Island, NE; sons and daughters-in-law, Chris and Brenda Placek of Daykin, NE, Matthew and Courtney Placek of Bellevue, NE; grandchildren, Tony Placek, Kristynn Brant, Lindsey Brant, Kenna Placek and Brett Placek; sister, Jean Tachovsky of Swanton, NE.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Lydia Placek and sister, LaVern.

A Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 PM on Monday, January 9, 2017 at Kuncl Funeral Home in Wilber, NE with Reverend Fred Berger officiating. Military honors will be conducted by the Swanton American Legion Post #258 and the Nebraska Army National Honor Guard. Casual attire is requested by the family. Memorials in lieu of flowers to the Swanton American Legion Post #258. Condolences may be left at kunclfh.com.