Joseph Svetkovich, Sr.

Joseph R. “Babe” Svetkovich, Sr ., 86, of Greensburg, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 17, 2021, at UPMC Canterbury Place, Pittsburgh. He was born June 30, 1934, in Luxor, a son of the late Ivan “John” and Barbara Svetkovich. Joe gave all of himself to everything he did and loved, and his devotion to his family as a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather was no exception. Joe retired from office as Hempfield Township Supervisor after 23 years of public service, having proudly served in management positions of Road Master and Superintendent of Roads. He worked as a laborer and crew leader prior to being elected into public office, devoting a total of 34 years to Hempfield Township. Joe’s diligence and commitment to the safety of his constituents led to the lighthearted nickname of “Two Flake,” given by his family, referencing his tendency to dispatch snow removal crews after only the first two snowflakes of the storm had fallen. Joe was a member of St. Bartholomew Parish, Crabtree, where he attended Mass on Sundays and served as an usher for many years. He loved all sports, having been a talented baseball player in his youth and a lifelong fan of the Pittsburgh Pirates and Steelers. A perfectionist in everything he did, Joe happily spent long hours outside caring for his yard and home. His wife claimed, with a chuckle, that he would come inside for lunch and wouldn’t return until suppertime. Fond memories of Joe’s determination and loyalty are cherished by his family and loved ones. In addition to his parents, Joe was preceded in death by five sisters, Barbara Pushic, Mary Marko, Ann Cindric, Katie Calabrace and Julie Santavy; and three brothers, John, Steve and George Svetkovich. He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Twila Faye (Ruffner) Svetkovich; a son, Joseph Svetkovich, Jr. and wife, Anita, of Greensburg; a daughter, Terri Svetkovich-Reynolds and husband, Richard, of North Versailles; three grandchildren, Ryan Altman and partner, Heather Knupp, of Pittsburgh, Cara Svetkovich and husband, Steven Pfister, of Bethel Park, and Lydia Svetkovich and fiancé, Nathan Emeigh, of Greensburg; two step-grandsons, Michael Reynolds and wife, Jennifer, of White Oak, and Rick Reynolds and wife, Bridget, of North Huntington; one great-grandson, Luka; three great-step-grandchildren, Joshua, Chelsea and Arabella; sister-in-law, Theresa Jean (George) Svetkovich; and many nieces and nephews. A viewing will be held for the immediate family in the CLEMENT L. PANTALONE FUNERAL HOME INC., 409 W. Pittsburgh St., Greensburg, PA 15601, 724-837-0020. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Monday, February 22, 2021, in St. Bartholomew Church, Crabtree, with Father Justin Matro, O.S.B., celebrating. Keeping with CDC guidelines, those attending the Mass are required to wear face masks and practice social distancing.  Burial will be private.  Memorial contributions can be made to: St. Bartholomew Church, 2538 Route 119, Crabtree, PA 15624. Joseph’s family has entrusted his care to the Pantalone Funeral Home, Inc., Greensburg.  To share your memories and photos, offer your condolences, or for directions, please visit us at www.pantalone.com Natale N. Pantalone, Supervisor.