Joseph Jerome Marko

Joseph Jerome Marko, 81, of Robinson Township passed away on May 13, 2018.  The son of Matthew and Elizabeth Marko of Moon Run, PA, Joe grew up alongside seven older siblings; the late Anthony (the late Juanita) Marko, the late Frank (the late Rose) Marko, the late Catherine (the late Walter) Stasik, the late William (the late Charlotte) Marko, Mary (Walter) Baker, the late Elizabeth (Robert) Beck and Anna (the late Edward) Fabean. Joe, who was also known as J.J., graduated from Robinson High School and left for Slippery Rock Teacher’s College, where he played soccer and golf. He earned his teaching degree in mathematics and physical education. He later earned his Master’s Degree from Duquesne University in Guidance Counseling. Everybody’s favorite gym teacher, Joe taught high school mathematics and elementary physical education in the Montour School District for 40 years. While teaching math at the high school, he met his wife, Colleen (Murdaca) of 53 years. They had three children together, Corinne Elizabeth (John) Murawskiof Sewickley, PA, Joseph Dominic (J.D.) Marko of San Francisco, CA, and Jennifer Rebecca Marko of Chandler, AZ. Joe was also grandfather to Zoey Marie Murawski and Cali Anna Murawski as well as a beloved uncle to a host of nieces and nephews.

His passions included gardening and golfing. In recent years, flower gardening became his joy. It was a common occurrence for passer-bys to comment on his beautiful tulips and lilies each season. An avid golfer, Joe was a member of the Quicksilver golf league and Robinson golfers. Joe’s fun-loving and easy-going personality made him a friend to many. He was always quick with a joke or a one-liner and would brighten any room.

Family will receive friends 1 -4 and 6 - 8 pm THURSDAY at McDERMOTT FUNERAL HOME, INC., 334 Forest Grove Rd., Kennedy Township, where prayers of transfer will be offered 9:30 AM FRIDAY, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 AM in Holy Trinity Roman Catholic church, Robinson Township. 

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations to be made to Mother Teresa Hospice, 3950 Broadhead Road, Monaca, PA 15061.