Joseph Michael Szymanowicz

Joe Szymanowicz lost his battle with cancer on August 5, 2014, at the young age of 76. He was born in Erie on November 15, 1937, a son of the late Leo and Helen Szymanowicz.

He attended Cathedral Prep, and graduated from Gannon University. Joe and his wife Fran were second generation owners of the Glass House Inn.

Joe had many passions. His most treasured one was his wife of 54 years Fran Hitz Szymanowicz, followed closely by his love of flight, as an accomplished private pilot for many years. His passion of flying went from the air to the ground, with his creation of White Eagle Industries, an airplane supply company. Joe's other interests included collecting reel to reel old time radio shows, hunting with his brother, Leon, and fixing anything and everything, from automobiles to airplane engines. He would often share his knowledge with friends from all over the world, as an amateur radio operator (WA3GJH).

His third and final passion was his family from his daughters: Laura Merryman, Jane Pontore, and Darcy Woodward, to the sons he never had: sons-in-law Tim, Michael, and Brian, ending with his eight grandchildren. He is further survived by a brother, Dr. Leon Sims and his wife Jeanne, and a sister, Wanda Roth and her husband Don.

Friends may call at the Burton Westlake Funeral Home, 3801 W. 26th Street (at Powell Ave.), on Thursday from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m., and are invited to attend a service there on Friday at 10:00 a.m., with Rev. Casimir Wozniak officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Franklin Township Volunteer Fire Department Inc., 7455 New Rd., Edinboro, PA 16412, or to Edinboro-McKean VFW Post 740, 10613 Route 98, Edinboro, PA 16412.

Sign the Guestbook at www.GoErie.com/obits