Obituary of Joseph J. Bielski

Joseph J. Bielski, age 67, of Mansfield, PA, passed away Saturday, August 6, 2011 at Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hospital, Wellsboro, PA. Joe was predeceased by parents, Francis and Hattie (Suchodolski) Bielski of Shamokin, PA, and sister, Christine George of Virginia. Joe is survived by his wife, Patricia McGraw Bielski of Mansfield, a son and his wife, Joseph and Leslie, grandchildren Amelya, Livondar, Joryn, Tahara and Bylena of North Pole, Alaska; sisters and brothers, Marie Bielski, Audrey OConnell, Ed (Frannie) Bielski, Frank (Mary) and Ann (Steve) Marcinek; brother-in-law, Howard George; mother-in-law, Betty McGraw; sisters-in-law, Peg Lee, Jo (Barry) Hafer, Terri (Rick) Bolt, many nieces, nephews, cousins and one maternal aunt. Joe loved his family and home. He cherished his wife (best and lovely assistant) and proudly adored his son, daughter-in-law and grandkids. Joe was generous, kind, funny and bigger than life. He enjoyed his extended family and was always the first to help and be there for them. Since his retirement as director of Special Education in Fairbanks, AK, Joe spent many hours taking care of their property on Route 6, which was a showcase year round, especially in the fall. Joe proudly served in the US Army, Green Beret Special Forces, and was a veteran of Vietnam. He was a recipient of both a bronze star and a medal of heroism. He was a member of the V.F.W., Loyal Order of the Moose and Hose House in Shamokin, PA. In keeping with Joes wishes, the celebration of his life will be private. Donations in his memory may be made to the American Cancer Society, 1948 E. Third St., Williamsport, PA 17701, or the Tioga County Honor Guard, c/o Robert Leyfert, Tioga, PA 16946. The Jacquelyn A. Buckheit Funeral Chapel, Crematory & Monuments, PC, 637 S. Main St., Mansfield, PA, is assisting the family. www.buckheitfcandcrematory.com