Joseph J. “Joe” Tracy, 90

July 14, 2025

Joseph J. “Joe” Tracy, 90, of Lancaster, passed away on Monday, July 14, 2025, at The Glen at Willow Valley Communities.

Born in Johnstown, PA, he was the son of the late Wojcik “George” and Anna (Gill) Tracz. He was the loving husband of Joan L. (Zahurak) Tracy.

Joe grew up in Johnstown, PA and played basketball in high school and college. He earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. He served two years in the U.S. Army before dedicating his career to education. He worked as a middle school English teacher for 37 years with the Greater Johnstown School District before his retirement. Outside the classroom, Joe often refereed for Johnstown area high school basketball games. A man of deep faith, Joe was a devoted Catholic. He enjoyed woodworking and spent countless hours crafting beautiful furniture and other wood crafts. He was an avid movie lover, with a special fondness for Westerns. Above all, Joe cherished his family. He found his greatest joy in the time he spent with his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-granddaughter, all of whom brought so much happiness to his life. He would often say “Co będzie, to będzie” – “Whatever will be, will be” reminding us to take life as it comes.

He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Joan Tracy; his children, Janet (Paul) Gerome and Jim (Teresa) Tracy; his grandchildren, Diane (Anthony Maslowski) Tracy, Theo Gerome, Lauren (Jake) Turner, and Alex Gerome; and his great-granddaughter, Caroline Turner.

He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Sophie Mulvehill.

Services are being held privately at the convenience of the family.