Carl "Big Zeke" William Haddle, Jr

Carl William Haddle Jr., affectionately known as "Big Zeke" to family and friends, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 2, 2026, in Poland, Ohio. Born on July 18, 1951, in Youngstown, Ohio, Carl was the beloved son of Carl Sr. and Mary (Stirk) Haddle.

A proud graduate of Chaney High School in 1969, Carl embarked on a remarkable career spanning five decades with R & J Trucking in Boardman, Ohio. Hired by owner Ron Carrocce, he spent 23 years as a dedicated truck driver before transitioning into the safety department, where he spent the next 27 years hiring and training new drivers. His commitment to excellence and safety earned him recognition as one of Ohio's 12 safest drivers by the Ohio Trucking Association in 1992 for his highway courtesy and impeccable driving record. During his time at R & J Trucking, Carl was twice honored with the company’s prestigious "Grand Guy Award." Known for his warm personality and sense of humor, Carl had a unique gift for bestowing nicknames upon everyone he encountered—family members, friends, and coworkers alike.

Carl shared a beautiful life with his wife of 53 years, Joanne (Massie) Haddle. Together they raised two children: daughter Elizabeth (George) Grell of Groveport, Ohio, and son Christopher Haddle of New Albany, Ohio. He also cherished his extended family deeply. Carl is survived by his sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Judy Haddle and Debbie Haddle, David Kohut, Audrey (Gary) Spahr, Chris (Mike) Medvec, and Betsy (Steve) Turner; as well as numerous nieces and nephews who held a special place in his heart: Jeremy Haddle, Jamie Haddle, David (Stacey) Binder, Tiffani (Steve)Tucci, Jacob Kohut, Shane (Matt) Haddle, Gary (Audrey) Haddle, Sarah (Terry) McDermott, Lindsey Brown, Mike Phillips, Michael Medvec, Matthew Medvec, Matthew Turner, Kristen Linse; along with many loving cousins and great-nieces and nephews.

Carl was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved in-laws Lloyd and Sarah Massie; his brothers Earl Haddle and Robert “Bobby” Haddle; and his dear sister Pati Kohut. Despite these losses over the years, Carl’s enduring love for family remained steadfast.

In addition to his human family members, Carl found joy in the companionship of three cherished grand-dogs: Jack, Bella, and Shadow.

A celebration of Carl’s life will take place on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at Heritage Presbyterian Church located at 1951 Matthews Road in Poland, Ohio. The service will begin at 11:00 a.m., officiated by Meta Cramer. Family and friends are invited to pay their respects starting at 10:15 a.m.

Carl William Haddle Jr., "Big Zeke," leaves behind a legacy of kindness, dedication to others’ safety on the roadways of Ohio and beyond—and above all—a deep love for those fortunate enough to know him. May his memory bring comfort to all who mourn his passing. 

Arrangements by Cremation & Funeral Service by Gary S. Silvat, Inc. Share memories and send condolences by visiting cremateohio.com.

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