Joseph S. Rich

1931 – 2024

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of a very proud Marine.  On Saturday, October 19th, at the age of 93, from Cranberry Township, Emlenton, PA, and Leesburg, FL.

Grandson of the late Julia & Joseph Rich, Sr.  Preceded in death by his wife Ann (Mudicka) Rich in 2006.  Joe was survived by his children Charlie (Shawna) Rich, Lisa (Rich) Santimauro and Kathy (the late Jim) Hamer, and his step-children Helen (the late Jim) Berger, Mary Ann (Gary) Gibson, and Susan (Joe) Podvorec.  Joe was also predeceased by his children Dave Andrews, Fred Rich, Joanne Giuffre, Marion Rich-Lloyd, and stepdaughter Nancy Wuenstel, as well as two grandchildren and one great-grandchild.  Joe leaves behind many grandchildren & great-grandchildren.

Joe worked hard his entire life from a young age and served as a Marine during the Korean War where he was awarded multiple medals for his service and was in the battle of the Chosin Reservoir.   After the service, he spent his career in the transportation industry working at General Nutrition, Leaseway, Penske, and New Castle Transit.  Joe attempted retirement several times and finally was successful at the young age of 82 when he retired from New Castle Transit.  Joe was very fortunate to spend several years as a "snowbird" after retirement in Leesburg, FL with all of his great friends there.  Spending time with family was Joe's greatest joy in life.  Joe loved his family dearly and enjoyed fishing, dinners at the VFW/Legion, relaxing at the Lake, and the Florida sunshine in the winter.    Although Joe suffered many tragic losses, health concerns & disappointments throughout his life, his determination to keep marching forward through all of it was truly inspiring.   He was a lifetime member of the VFW, American Legion, Quartermaster at the VFW Post 7840, and Teamsters Local Union No. 926.

Family will welcome friends on Wednesday, October 23rd, from 2 until 7 pm. at the BURKET-TRUBY FUNERAL HOME CREMATION AND ALTERNATIVE SERVICES, INC., 421 Allegheny Avenue, Oakmont, PA  15139, where a blessing service will be held at 6:30 p.m.  A private burial service will be held at a later date.

The family would like to sincerely thank all of the staff at Sherwood Oaks PC in Cranberry for their care, support, kindness and friendship over the past 18 months.  Joe truly felt like a VIP every single day, and for that we are forever grateful.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly suggests a donation or time spent with your local Veterans' organizations to support all of our service men and women.  Semper Fi.