Joshua Lee Vodry

Vodry, Joshua “My mind still talks to you, my heart still looks for you, but my soul knows you are at peace now. - Your wings were ready, but my heart was not” – Kymberly Pashkowsky, Joshua’s Mother.

Joshua Lee Vodry, known affectionately as “Josh, Hoshua, or Julio” to his friends and family, left the physical world on October 26, 2024, following a motorcycle accident. Born on November 18, 2002, in Grand Rapids, Josh's life was a testament to live each day with passion and an unquenchable thirst for adventure.

Josh's journey began as the cherished son of Kymberly Pashkowsky and the late Glenn Vodry. He grew up surrounded by a loving family that included his stepfather, Allan Pashkowsky; his siblings Kylie Curtis, Valerina Pashkowsky, Grant Pashkowsky, and Kouper Pashkowsky. Extended siblings Chase Vos, Kirstyn VanMale, Connor VanMale; his grandmothers Dorothy Curtis, Lucy Vodry, Sheron Metevia, and the late Bernice Vodry. He was also embraced by the warmth of the Mark and Linda Holler family, Jerry and Molly Vodry family, Dan and Lori Bretzlaff family, the late Lisa Curtis and family, Josette Pashkowsky and family, and with the extended VanMale, and Kasnowicz families. Included are the vast circle of friends who became his chosen family.

Joshua quickly became known for his mechanical genius and his love for all things that roared and raced. His career as a mechanic was more than a job; it was a calling where he could bring his creativity to life. Josh's hands were rarely clean, his mind was always racing, and his heart was ever invested in the next project. He had an immense passion for wheeling, racing, and wrenching on off-road 4x4 vehicles and anything with a motor. The garage was his sanctuary, a place where he found solace among tools and engines.

Josh was the embodiment of love, kindness, and a spirit of adventure. He never shied away from a challenge and inspired others to push their limits and embrace their passions. His infectious enthusiasm and unwavering support uplifted everyone around him. Josh was a beacon of positivity, encouraging his loved ones to pursue their dreams Vodry, Joshua with the same fervor he applied to his own life. As a motivational speaker might say, "The only limits you have are the ones you set for yourself." Josh lived by this principle, always striving to reach new heights and encouraging others to do the same. He was a dreamer and a doer, someone who understood that life was not just about the destination but also the journey and the joy of the ride. In the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson, "Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail." Josh did precisely that, forging his path in the world with boldness and originality. His legacy is not merely in the machines he built or the adventures he undertook but, in the hearts, he touched and the lives he inspired. Josh's life, although difficult for a young man to lose his father and best friend at such an impactful age, Joshua did his best each day to make his father proud and keep his legacy alive. Joshua’s life is a message of hope and relentless pursuit of happiness. He was a living example that we should all dare to live the life we have dreamed for ourselves, and by doing so, we can make a difference in the world.

While Josh's physical presence is no longer with us, his spirit continues to soar high, reminding us to live fully, love deeply, and tackle life with unbridled enthusiasm. His was a life well-lived, and though his time with us was cut short, the impact of his journey will be felt for generations to come.

As we remember Joshua Lee Vodry, let us carry forward the essence of his being—his love, his kindness, and his adventurous spirit. May we honor his memory by living our lives with the same courage and zest that he did. Fly high, Joshua, you will always be a beacon guiding us through the adventures of life.

Celebration of Joshua’s life – Berlin Baptist Church, Marne, MI December 2, 2024 Visitation 10-11am Memorial 11am Lunch to follow memorial