Josef Urbanec, 84, of The Villages, Florida, passed away on July 7, 2026.
Born on March 18, 1942, in Zlín, Czechoslovakia, Josef trained as a machinist before immigrating to the United States in July 1969 with his wife, Anna. The couple became proud naturalized U.S. citizens in 1978.
Josef worked as a machinist at Inland Steel in East Chicago, Illinois, for 25 years. In August 1999, he and Anna moved to The Villages, settling first in the Village of Santiago on Carrillo Street, where they built a wide circle of friends. In October 2023, they moved to Watercrest at Buena Vista, continuing to enjoy the active community and forming many lasting friendships there as well.
An avid tennis player, Josef loved playing on the courts throughout The Villages. He was known for his ready smile, warm laugh, and friendly hello to everyone he met. You could always find him enjoying conversation at his regular Saturday coffee club at Panera.
He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Anna Urbanec, who passed away on January 6, 2024. He is survived by his son, Tomas Urbanec; his daughter-in-law, Jeraldine; and his granddaughters, Klara Anna and Ema Josefina.
Josef will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his pride in his new country, his passion for tennis, his warm and friendly nature, and the many friendships he and Anna cherished during their years in The Villages.
Cremation has taken place through his pre-arranged service. A remembrance event will be held at Watercrest at Buena Vista on Friday.