Joseph "Joe" A. Szaflarski

Joseph “Joe, Joe Ski” Albert Szaflarski

With a passion for sports and family, Joe lived his life to the fullest.

On the afternoon of Thursday March 4th 2021, our beloved Joe passed away at Chambersburg Hospital, after a brave battle with cancer.  His loving wife and children were by his side, and his brothers and sisters visited with him that morning.

Born on November 29, 1964, Joe was the second child, and first son of Joseph J and Viola Szaflarski.  In addition to his older sister, Joe was big brother to 4 younger siblings.  At 10 years old Joe moved from State Line, PA to Greencastle, PA where he would remain and call home.  Joe played Little League in Greencastle, often riding his bike to practice in town, from his home on Nancy Avenue.

In high school, Joe played football, baseball, and wrestled and met the love of his life.  He and Dana Walck married on May 21, 1988 and had 2 children, Natalie and Tyler.  Joe was Little League coach to both Natalie and Tyler coaching Tyler’s LL baseball team to 2 sectional championships in 2005 and 2006. He coached midget football and served on local baseball and football boards.  Joe looked forward to Friday nights where he sat in the stands and proudly watched Tyler on the high school football field, and Natalie as cheerleader.  Joe and Dana’s house was a popular hangout for the teens and their friends.

Later, he and Dana would travel on weekends to watch Tyler play college football for Bloomsburg University, and to visit Natalie in Philadelphia where she was a teacher.  One of Joe’s proudest moments came in July of 2020 when he walked Natalie down the aisle on her wedding day and he was anxiously awaiting the birth of his first grandchild.  Hunting with his dad and brothers was a cherished event, whether at their cabin or trips to Missouri.  When at home, Joe spent his time with extended family and friends hosting large gatherings and cooking up wings on the grill!  Joe enjoyed sports at all levels.  He followed local athletes, and loved the Pittsburgh Pirates and Steelers, attending at least one Steeler game a season.

Joe was an active member of the community and well-liked by all who knew him.  Joe was strong in his faith and a long-time member of St. Marks Catholic church.  He was employed as a software developer and worked many years with his youngest brother.  Joe will forever be known as a great son, brother, husband, father, and friend.  Joe was genuinely “a good and humble man”.  He was loved immensely and will be missed greatly.

Arrangements are entrusted to the Harold M. Zimmerman and Son Funeral Home, Inc., Greencastle, PA. A private funeral mass will be held at the St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church, Greencastle, PA. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in his name to the Greencastle Antrim Baseball/Softball Association at PO Box 125, Greencastle PA 17225.

A celebration of Joe’s life will be held at a later date. Online condolences may be expressed at www.zimmermanfh.com