Joe Veselsky, the oldest (known) living man in Ireland, celebrated his 106th birthday in Dublin on October 20th. His birthday was first reported by Nový Čas and the Slovak Embassy in Ireland.
Jozef (Joe) Veselsky was born on October 20, 1918, in Trnava (in present-day Slovakia), just eight days before the proclamation of Czechoslovakia’s independence on October 28. Tragically, he lost his family at a young age—his mother, father, and brother perished in the Auschwitz concentration camp. He later joined the Slovak National Uprising, though he openly admitted that he didn’t feel like a hero at the time and was fully aware of the danger he faced. “I was never afraid, and I was lucky,” he reflected.
After the war, he became the captain of the Czechoslovak table tennis team. Life under the political regime was challenging, yet in August 1949, with little English and no business experience, Joe successfully emigrated to Ireland. There, he founded what would become a thriving jewelry business. He married Katarina, known as Kathy, and together they had two children, Peter and Kate. He was widowed in 2009.
(Source: Facebook/Slovak Embassy in Ireland)
Veselsky went on to serve as the non-playing captain of the Irish table tennis team and, in 1972, became President of the Swaythling Club, a role he held until 1987. He also served as President of the Irish Table Tennis Association for many years before being honored with the title of Life President.
In 2008, he received the prestigious Commander of the Slovak Order of the White Double Cross for his exceptional achievements in sport and his contributions to strengthening diplomatic relations between Slovakia and Ireland.
On 9 October 2024, following the passing of 108-year-old Martin McEvilly, he became the oldest (known) living man in Ireland. At the moment, he is also the oldest (known) Slovakian-born man in the world.
Featured image: Slovenské veľvyslanectvo v Írsku / Slovak Embassy in Ireland
LongeviQuest extends warm congratulations to Joe Veselsky on his 106th birthday. We hope he had a wonderful celebration and wish him continued good health. His story continues to inspire people around the world.
