Joseph Michael Francis Skalak of North Wales passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Nov. 20, 2019.  He is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Katherine, his children Katherine (Nicholas), Genevieve (Jesse), Rita (Kevin) and his two sisters, Rita Brelsford (Jeff), Evelyn Camburn (James) and his brother, John.  He is also survived by his four grandchildren: Nicholas, Sienna, David and Joseph as well as numerous cousins and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Rita (Barone) and Joseph of Lansdale.  

Joseph grew up in Lansdale, and was a devout Catholic at St. Rose of Lima, St. Stanislaus and Corpus Christi parishes. His strong faith is our assurance that he is with the Lord. He was a graduate of Lansdale Catholic High School where he ran track. Joe loved his family above all, and he genuinely enjoyed sharing his hobbies and interests with them. He was an avid fisherman and relished the quiet times sitting with his loved ones waiting to reel one in. He loved the beach and some of the family’s fondest memories are times spent in Cape May, NJ and fishing in West Lake, Ontario. Joe enjoyed collecting and building model trains. He had a deep appreciation for music and shared that passion with his family. He played the guitar, saxophone and piano. Joe loved nature and the outdoors and enjoyed time spent gardening and with his bonsais. His other passions included working on his classic cars, antiquing, and attending local car shows.   

Joe was a member of the Sheet Metal Workers Local 19 in Philadelphia for 37 years until his retirement.  He had a passion for building and fixing things, and honed his welding skills while employed there. He was also Judge of Elections for 10 years, while educating his community on the importance of voting, with his wife Kathi by his side. Joe loved his hometown and community. He was an enthusiastic Philadelphia sports fan. He was a devoted family man and beloved member of his community. He will be dearly missed by his family, friends, and those who knew him.

There will be a visitation with the family at Simcox-McIlvaine Funeral Home, 532 E. Main St., in Lansdale on Wednesday November 27, 2019 from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. There will be a Mass following at St. Stanislaus Church, 51 Lansdale Ave., Lansdale,  at 11:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made to the American Cancer Society in Joseph’s name.