Joseph Gadaleta

Hatfield, PA
June 26, 2025

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Joseph Gadaleta of Hatfield PA, on Thursday June 26, 2025 at the age of 93. Joseph was born on June 21st, 1932, in Philadelphia, PA to Michele and Thersa [Monteleone].

“Joe” was a Sergeant in the U.S. Army in Germany from January 1953 to January 1955. He was in the 4th Infantry Division, Tank Battalion. He was awarded the Germany Occupation Medal and National Defense Service Medal.

Upon returning home, he married Phyllis [Diccianni] in January 1956. Joe worked for Philco while living in Manayunk. He and Phyllis moved to Diamond St. in Hatfield in 1968 where they resided until 2023.

In 1973, Joe was hired as a Maintenance Planner at Merck & Co. in West Point and retired in 1994.

Joe was a public servant. From 1975-2010, he held serval offices in Hatfield Borough, including Councilman, Park Commissioner, and serving on the Planning Commission. He loved serving his Hatfield community.

He was also an active member in the Hatfield Lions Club, Knights of Columbus in Lansdale and participated in Stewardship Activities at St. Maria Goretti Church in Hatfield. He was also a General Member of Hatfield Vol. Fire Co., as well as a Charter member of Hatfield Museum & History Society.

After retirement, he enjoyed gardening, spending time with his family, including his 4 grandchildren and 2 Great Grandchildren. His love and passion for his family was very strong and was the highlight of his days.

He enjoyed watching his favorite Philadelphia sports team – Phillies, Eagles and Sixers. He enjoyed watching and attending Philles games with Phyllis, including spending some time in Clearwater, Florida during Spring Training.

He was also a regular at the Trolley Stop Deli in Hatfield, where Phyllis worked part time. He would work with Phyllis in the mornings to open the deli and greet customers.

Joe is survived by sons Joseph Jr. of Hatfield, Michael of Glen Cove, NY., grandchildren Loni of Hatfield, Michael of West Chester, Jacob and Ryan of Lansdale, and great-grandchildren Hailey and Mason of Hatfield, his sisters Jean Hitch of The Villages, Florida, Thersa Watson of Cherry Hill NJ and Loretta of Abington.

Joe was preceded in death by his beloved wife Phyllis, sisters Angela DePalma, Francis Palo, Catherine Jamison and brothers Lawrence of Langhorne, Michael of Ft. Myers, FL and Andrew of Warrington, PA.

A viewing will be held on July 7th, 2025 at St. Maria Goretti RC Church – 1601 Derstine Road, Hatfield from 9am to 10:25am with Mass following at 10:30am. Burial to follow at Hatfield Cemetery, 2711 Penn Avenue, Hatfield.

The family would like to thank the Living Branches for their care and attention given to our Father, Grandpop and Great Grandpop for their care and support during his time of need.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Leader Dogs for the Blind, whose mission is to empower the blind and visually impaired with skills for safe and independent travel.