In loving memory of Joseph Michael Kurylak
September 9, 1955 – December 15, 2024
Joseph (Joe) Kurylak was born on September 5, 1955 in Sellersville, PA, and passed away on December 15, 2024.
He was the youngest – and only boy – of seven children. From an early age, Joe loved baseball and the outdoors, working as a paperboy and also at the local township parks. He was an excellent pitcher and played for the Pennridge school district and other competitive leagues.
Joe attended Bucks County Community College and then Shippensburg University, where he obtained his BA degree. He began his career working for Pennsylvania State Government, where he met his wife Gail, and then for former US Senator Arlen Specter. He later earned an MBA from Saint Joseph’s University and worked in Information Technology at General Electric, USHealthcare, and, ultimately, GlaxoSmithKline where he retired after 25 years.
Joe loved spending time with his family and friends, who treasured him as a kind, caring, supportive, funny, and wonderful husband, father, family member, and friend. He was known for telling jokes and never failed to make those around him smile and laugh. He loved listening to music, hiking, grilling, working outside on his lawn and property, and hosting gatherings with Gail at their home in Lansdale, where they lived for over 34 years. Joe also enjoyed traveling, going on many trips over the years with Gail as a couple, with their children, and with friends.
He was an avid Phillies and Eagles sports fan. An athlete himself, Joe played in golf leagues at Mainland Golf Course and could often be found playing 9 holes at Worcester Golf Club, where he had a hole-in-one during his last round.
During 2024, Joe battled cancer. He had a tender, yet resilient and strong heart, facing his diagnosis and treatment with an incredible attitude. He passed away on December 15, 2024, surrounded by family. He was predeceased by his parents Walter Kurylak and Sarah Daniels Kurylak, and his sisters Sarah Moyer, Esther Myers, and Ceal Rinehimer. He is survived by his wife Gail Ackley Kurylak, his daughters Joan Kurylak and Leah Kurylak, and his sisters Ann Mulhall, Catherine Charitas, and Bernadette Lutterer.
He will be endlessly missed.
Memorial donations may be made in Joe’s memory to Manna on Main Street in Lansdale.