Joseph S. Wilkoski
- On October 15, 2021
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Joseph S. Wilkoski, age 69, of McMurray, formerly of Mount Lebanon, passed away peacefully after a long illness surrounded by his family on Wednesday, October 13, 2021. Beloved husband of almost 40 years to Deborah H. (Connors) Wilkoski. Loving father to Jennifer and the late Zachary Wilkoski. Dear brother of Phyllis (John) Miller, the late Eileen (John) Welsh, and the late Judith Wiliszewski. He was a beloved “Uncle Joey” to many nieces and nephews and their children. He was a devoted family man and touched the hearts of many, including his extended family by marriage, and was especially fond of his sister-in-law Lori Connors and her children, Jeremey, Christopher, and Allison, whom he treated as his own.
The son of the late Tillie (Hundzienski) and Joseph S. Wilkoski, Sr., Joe was born on March 15, 1952. He grew up in Scott Township where he attended Chartiers Valley High School before attending the University of Pittsburgh, where he achieved both a Bachelor of Science degree and later a Masters of Business Administration degree. While still in high school, Joe began working in the lab at Pittsburgh Testing Laboratory (PTL). He later worked his way up to Assistant Treasurer. Not only did his time at PTL bring advancements in his career, but it also led to the fortuitous meeting of his beloved wife, Debbie, who has been by his side ever since. After leaving PTL, Joe worked for over 20 years as the Chief Financial Officer at Watson Standard Company in Harwick, PA. At Watson, Joe was a dedicated colleague who many cite as a mentor and friend.
Before his illness, Joe was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed boating, camping, skiing, shooting, and golfing. With the mind of an engineer and skills accumulated over a lifetime, Joe was especially skilled at building and fixing things. Aided by the help of his Connors brothers-in-law and numerous friends, Joe built his first house, numerous decks, sheds, and other projects around the house. With a life-long love of cars, Joe was also a skilled mechanic. With the help of his son, Zach, Joe built his dream car, an AC Cobra from the wheels up. Even after his illness debilitated him physically, Joe’s intellectual curiosity never ebbed. He will be remembered as always willing to lend a hand or ear and happy to offer advice about finances, projects, or life in general.
While a steadfast presence in many lives, Joe was most devoted to his family, his wife, Debbie, and children, Jennifer and Zachary. His greatest joy was spending time with his family, exploring new places, and trying new things. He has greatly missed his beloved son, Zachary, since his sudden death due to an automobile accident in 2017. His family is comforted that they are now reunited in the great beyond.
Joe was a cherished son, brother, husband, and father. A friend and mentor to many, and forever in our hearts. In the words of his favorite musician, John Mellencamp, which Joe had tattooed on his arm and in his heart, “I’m glad to say I’ve enjoyed every day of the full catastrophe of life.”
Family and friends are welcome Friday, October 22, 2021 from 2-8 pm at Pittsburgh Cremation & Funeral Care, 3287 Washington Rd., McMurray, PA 15317, 724-260-5546. A Funeral Mass will be held Saturday, October 23, 2021 at 9:30 am at St. John the XXIII Parish, 120 Abington Dr., McMurray, PA 15317.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Salvation Army.
Please view and sign the family’s online guestbook at pittsburghcremation.com.
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