Joseph P. Gelches, 53, of Pottsville, passed away Tuesday, August 17th, at Lehigh Valley Health Network Schuylkill-East. Joe was born in Pottsville, on July 25, 1968, a son of Carmen “Sis” L. (Heinbach) Gelches, of Orwigsburg, and the late Peter Francis Gelches.Joe was a 1986 Blue Mountain High School Graduate.
He had worked for Cartech, in Reading, for 27 years. He had been working for Lowe's Distribution Center for the past 7 years. Joe enjoyed Jeep riding, fast cars, hunting, fishing, shooting, ATV riding, the beach & the Sun. He was always a jokester, loving to laugh. He was such a genuine good hearted person with a charming personality.In addition to his Mother, Sis, Joe is also survived by the love of his life, Brenda Eckert, with whom he resided, his sister, Michele (Shelly) Gelches, fiancé of Kevin Connors; nephews Carter & Kaden Gelches ; uncle Clark “Jerry” Heinbach, husband of Rose, Oklahoma City, OK He is also survived by his faithful dog Gunner.
He is also survived by Brenda’s family, which Joe considered his own. They are in laws, Butch & MaryJo Eckert, step-son Joseph Brennan, Jr, husband of Kamryn; step daughter Jessica Delaney, wife of Matt. grandchildren Kaley & Kelsie Brennan. brother in law Adam Eckert husband of Mandy. niece Madison Eckert, nephew Adam “Wormie” Eckert. Other fur babies include Checkers, Willow & Daisy Mae.
A Celebration of Life Service for Joe, will be held at 12:00 PM on Tuesday, August 24th at Hamilton - Breiner Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc. in Orwigsburg. Please share your stories about Joe during the service. The visitation will begin at 10:00 in the funeral home. Interment will be in St. Johns UCC Cemetery, Orwigsburg.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Ruth Steinert Memorial SPCA PO Box 332 Schuylkill Haven, PA 17972.
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