Joseph E. Holtslag, 92, of North Utica passed away on Friday, February 1, 2013. Joseph was born in Schenectady, NY on August 31, 1920, a son of Joseph E. and Mary (Hoffmann) Holtslag. He was a Navy veteran of World War II and served on the USS Knudson. In 1942, Joseph married Doris Jess. She passed away in 1959. On July 21, 1962 in St. Peter's Church, Joseph married MaryRose Gillespie Miller, a blessed union of 50 years until her passing on January 3, 2013. For many years Joseph was employed at General Electric retiring in 1980. He was a parishioner and former Eucharistic Minister of St. Peter's Church, a lifetime member of the Knights of Columbus #189, member of the American Legion Post #229, and in his earlier years was a volunteer at the Stanley Theatre. Joseph loved motorcycling and was a handyman who loved building and derived great pleasure in helping others. In their younger years, Joseph and MaryRose loved traveling and sightseeing with their family throughout the country. They especially enjoyed spending time camping in the Adirondacks. Joseph is survived by his five children: Joseph and Sandy Holtslag, NC, Jim and Gail Holtslag, TN, Tim Holtslag, CA, Jean LaPlante, Whitesboro, Bill and Cathy Holtslag, Whitesboro, a brother and sister-in-law, David and Gertrude Holtslag, CO, fifteen grandchildren, thirty six great grandchildren and a great great granddaughter. Joseph was predeceased by two sisters, Barbara Moore and Rosemary Maloy. A memorial mass for Mr. Holtslag, will be held on Tuesday, February 5, 2013, at 10:00 at St. Peter's Church, North Utica. There are no calling hours. A private burial will be held at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, those so wishing may make donations to the Wounded Warriors Project or St. Peter's Church.