Joseph W. McKendree Jr.

McKENDREE – Joseph W. Jr., 71, of Salix, passed away at home surrounded by family after a courageous battle with Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) and its related effects.

Joe is survived by his devoted wife of 40 years, Mary; children, Tina, Bobby, Jimmy, and Amanda (Daniel Casciato). Joe adored his 3 granddaughters, Alexandria Blough, Chloe Blough, and Giavanna Casciato, and they loved him dearly. Brother to Wayne (Janette), Kathy, and Robert. Loving in-laws Grace Penatzer, Chuck and Pam Penatzer, Phil Penatzer, Barry and Sue McCullough, Linda Penatzer, Paula McGinnis, Bev and John Progar, and Dennis and Patricia Penatzer. He will also be missed by loving nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Preceded in death by his mother, Lois J. McKendree; father, Joseph W. McKendree, father-in-law, Charles L. Penatzer; and sister-in-law, Gina McKendree.

Proud member of the St. Michael American Legion, Post 551 and Adams Township Lions Club. Joe was active in Adams Township Girls Softball, South Fork Men's Softball League, and Forest Hills Boosters.

Joe's family extends deep appreciation to thoughtful neighbors Dick and Carol; Chris and Tom; Kelly and Ken; and Tammy and Brian; The dedicated support from Debbie, Cindy, and the "Jens" at the James Van Zandt VA Medical Center in Richland; Denise at Veterans Affairs; Bonnie at Walnut Medical; Danielle and Windber Hospice for their compassionate care; Cathy and his friends at the Adult Day Center in Ebensburg; and Tara at Homewatch Caregivers. A special thanks to Joe's nurses, doctors and therapists, and many others who assisted Joe during his journey with this debilitating disease. Also, special thanks to Pastor Randy for his comfort and prayerful support.

Joe inspired others to persevere, but accepted what he could not change with patience and dignity. He will be remembered for his love of the outdoors, his commitment to proudly serving his country during the Vietnam War and Operation Enduring Freedom, and bringing PSP awareness to the community.

He was a dedicated guardsman for more than 30 years with the 876th Engineer Battalion. For over 35 years, Joe was a loyal employee at Reighard Machine Company and then the State Correctional Institution at Somerset before retiring due to his declining health.

Family and friends will be received from 11 a.m. until time of service at noon Monday at Charles O. Dimond Funeral Home, Inc., South Fork, Pastor Randy Bain, officiating.

Lions will hold a brief service at 11:30 a.m. and military rites by St. Michael American Legion Post 551 will immediately follow the funeral service.

As an expression of sympathy please consider memorial donations in Joe's name to CurePSP, 1206 York Road, Suite L-4, Lutherville, MD 21093 or online at www.psp.org .