Obituaries

L. R. “Joe” Witek, 85

March 29, 2014

L. R. “Joe” Witek, 85, passed away surrounded by his loving family on Saturday, March 29, at Lancaster General Hospital. Born May 29, 1928 in Johnstown PA. He was the son of the late Frank and Hedwig (nee Rutkowski) Witek.

Joe served in the Merchant Marine during World War II as a seventeen year old able seaman. Later he served as a paratrooper in the Army Airborne during the Korean War. While in the service he met and married Patricia Stidham.

His career in business began with Flexsteel Industries eventually leading to a partnership with local businessman Abe Mellinger. Together they launched Mellinger Interiors, which later became known as “Interiors 2000.”

Joe was a lifelong staunch Democrat and political junkie as well as a long time member of the Lancaster Radio Control Club, a big horse racing fan and a passionate golfer. In his retirement he worked for the Lancaster Host Golf Course as a Ranger.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Patricia Witek of Lancaster PA, his son Timothy J.Witek husband of Jody Witek of Conestoga PA, Joseph P. “Rusty” Witek husband of Terri Witek of Deland FL, Patricia Tossona wife of Anthony Tossona (his BFF) of Lititz PA, John Witek husband of Kristin Anderson of Durham NC, Mark Witek husband of Katia Trangoni Witek of Millersville PA, and nine grandchildren as well as his canine companion Perez.

He was hilarious, a great Dad and Grandfather and he is sorely missed.

Services will be private. Memorial contributions in Joe’s honor may be sent to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis TN 38105.

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Condolences to the Family

April 03, 2014

Dear Witek Family,
We extend our deepest condolences to your entire family on the loss of your beloved husband, father and grandfather. May your grief be eased by the memories of a wonderful life well lived. 
Tom Discavage & family

April 03, 2014

Friends,
I was saddened to hear of the passing of my good friend and golfing partner Joe Witek. Joe was a true gentleman and a fantastic guy. I had the pleasure of spending many enjoyable days on the golf course with him over the years, never a dull moment. I’m going miss his famous wit, humor, and insight on life he shared with me.
Ed Haubert

April 03, 2014

Dear Witek Family,
     We were all saddened by the loss in your family.  When we all think of Joe we remember his great sense of humor.  I always enjoyed his company.  He truly was one of a kind.  Our love and prayers go out to all of you.   With deepest sympathy, The McDonald Family.
 

April 03, 2014

Dear Pat and Family,  I would like to send my sympathy to you and your family.  I have fond memories when we were neighbors in Conestoga Woods. Please call me if ever you want to do lunch and rehash old times
 
Theresa Weiss Duvall Turner

April 02, 2014

Patty,
My deepest sympathy to you and your family.  I was so sad to hear of the loss of your Father.  Just take a day at a time and I know you will treasure all the wonderful memories of your Father which some times will bring laughter and other times tears.  That is part of the healing process. Be kind to yourself.
With deepest sympathy.
Sandy Shiffer

April 02, 2014

Dear Pat & family,
 We have always been blessed with good friends and neighbors, so glad that you and Joe were part of our lives  in that respect. Our deepest condolensences to you and your family. He was a good man and neighbor. Everytime I watch golf I think of Joe. I can still see him in the yard with a club and balls. Thankful for memories.
Al & Cathy Wallander

April 02, 2014

To Tim:  Just a classmate wanting to extend my condolences on the loss of your father.
My sympathy to you and your family.
God Bless You!
Michele Guito Miller

April 02, 2014

So sorry for your loss! May God’s peace surround you during this difficult time.
Katrina Johnson

April 02, 2014

My condolences to you Tim as well as your mother and the rest of your family.  I actually knew your father.  When we built our first house we bought our furniture from him. That was along time ago, 1970.  The drawer where I keep my socks still has a Mellinger Interiors sticker on it.  Hope you are doing well.
Linford Horst

April 01, 2014

RIP Joe! Thank you for being part of my life and being such a great friend. Our times at Myrtle Beach were just the best .

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