JOSEPH FRANCIS MCKENZIE SR.

MCKENZIE JOSEPH FRANCIS., SR. "JOE" Lost his heroic battle against ALS on January 12, 2021. Joe was born to loving parents Rita and William McKenzie – both of whom preceded him in death. In addition to his wife Vicki of 24 years, he is survived by his son Joseph Jr. and puppy Scrappy; brother William McKenzie; sister Rosa (Steve) Kauffman; brother Robert (Alice Brown) McKenzie; sister Cheryl (Howard) Powell; brother Michael (Paola) McKenzie and sister Laura Waters; nieces Rebecca, Jacqueline, Alycia, Morgan, Gianna, Mariah, Kaitlyn and Angela; nephews Rick, David, Christopher, Justin, Michael, Ian, Nicholas, Thomas, Jose; great nieces Adelynn, Evelyn, Naya Gracie; great nephews Jack, Ryan, Benjamin, Julian, Noah, Michael III. Joe was born in Levittown, Pa and lived in Upper Darby, Drexel Hill, Malvern, Philadelphia, Paoli and Devon, Pa. Joe worked several jobs as a young man – photo salesman, bartender, television pitch man/producer, industrial controls top salesman, and safety clean technician before starting a Commercial Collections Agency - Olde City Financial. Joe continued to manage the company for many years after his ALS diagnosis – and with the assistance of his beloved wife Vicki worked right up until his passing. Joe loved the city of Philadelphia especially the Italian Market that he frequented often. He loved to cook and there was always a pot of soup ready for all who needed to warm themselves during the Mummers Parade. His homemade apple sauce was out of this world good. His cheesesteak filets were the stuff of legends. He was the proud owner of Cadillacs and Harleys – commenting that he was fortunate to have owned more of them than any one man deserved. He had a definite fondness for bourbon and cigars. He was often heard to say "the better you plan, the luckier you get," and "we had a plan…we executed it." Joe believed that we would be judged not by what we said but by what we did. He was an exceptional human being with an enormous amount of empathy and kindness - such a selfless man, mentor to many. He had a tremendous sense of humor and an unforgettable laugh. He loved his family and friends dearly and did so much to bring them together whether it be for Christmas dinners, birthday and graduation parties, family reunions, a wedding or epic pig roasts! As the news of Joe's passing spread numerous tributes poured in. "Passionate and wise," "a force to be reckoned with," "an example for us all," "one of the best and selfless men it has been my pleasure to have known," "always kept us laughing – will be forever missed," "loved the time I was around him, he always wanted family around him," "welcomed me into the family without hesitation," "one of my favorite people on the planet." Joe faced ALS head-on with a strength and courage that will remain an inspiration. He sought no pity, was grateful for having lived a full life – and maintained his awesome sense of humor right up until his passing. He is sorely missed by all who knew and loved him. An outdoor celebration of Joe's life will be held in the Spring when family and friends can gather safely. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the ALS ASSOCIATION.