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1948 - 2022
1948 - 2022
Obituary
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Joseph John Pizonka, 74, of Valley Forge, PA passed away on December 12, 2022. He was born in Norristown, PA in 1948 to the late Joseph and Mary Pieczonka. Joe was the beloved husband of Barbra Tibbets Pizonka (nee Hourihan), with whom he shared 46 cherished years. Following his graduation from Dickinson College, Joe honorably served in the United States Marine Corps. After his service, he went on to receive his law degree from Vermont law School.
Joe proceeded to lead a successful law career over the next 46 years. After beginning his career serving in the Montgomery County District Attorney's Office, Joe entered private practice where he provided broad expertise in the fields of real estate and family law. Joe was also the founder and principal of Commerce Abstract Co, Inc.
He was named a Top-Rated Lawyer by the American Lawyer Magazine and earned an AV Preeminent lawyer rating by Martindale Hubbell. Joe served as solicitor for several municipalities, municipal authorities, and represented disputants at all levels of court proceedings including cases argued before the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania.
Joe was an avid golfer and member of the Whitemarsh Valley Country Club for over 30 years. His proudest achievements on the golf course were his victory in the 2010 President’s Cup tournament and a hole-in-one in 2018. He also enjoyed traveling throughout the world with family and friends and in recent years took joy in watching the sunset with his wife on the beach near his place in Naples, Florida.
In addition to his wife, Barbra, he is survived by his two sons, Joseph Pizonka III (Gillian) and Craig Pizonka (Laura), and his three grandchildren who he adored, Jack, Nick, and Lily.
Relatives and friends are invited to Joe’s visitation on Sunday, December 18, 2022 from 3:00 – 6:00 PM at the Mauger-Givnish Funeral Home, 24 Monument Avenue, Malvern, PA. Services and interment will be private.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Joe’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
Jayne Aras
December 9, 2023
Joe was not just my cousin he was like a brother . Since he’s been gone, I realize now how much I depended on his guidance, friendship and family bond. Rest in peace, my dear cousin..
John McMahon
December 22, 2022
Today learned the devastating news that my dear friend of twenty- five years, Joe, whom I affectionally called "Big Joe" passed away last week. My first thought of Joe is "what a gentleman." My second thought is how much I enjoyed his laid back and easy going personality. Joe was as all of us in the legal community know a very exceptional lawyer. He was also an astute business man and possibly a fairly decent golfer according to rumors I heard. My friendship with Joe dates back to the nineties when we bought a vacation house together on Useppa Island, Florida which we enjoyed together for several years. Most recently, I had the great fortune to have a lunch with Joe at Lou's Sandwich Shop in Norristown, one of our favorite spots. I would never have thought for a second that that would be the last time I would see my good friend, "Big Joe." I still can't believe that this news is true as I look ay Joe's picture in the tux. I will greatly miss you Joe, and although I can't remember I hope I picked up the tab tour last lunch. I offer my deepest condolences to Barbara, Josh and Craig. I know that Joe was very proud of his wonderful family. With my deepest sympathies. John McMahon
Dennis , Anita, and Family Fragale
December 21, 2022
The family saying was, “ask Joey”. He was always there for all of us and will be forever missed. Prayers for Barb and your great family.
Alison and Mitch Groder
December 20, 2022
We are truly saddened by the news of Joe's passing, our wonderful and caring neighbor. We will miss seeing Joe, oh so diligently practicing his golf swing in the front yard and perfecting his chip! Always with a smile and ready for a friendly chat and genuinely curious about our families goings-on. Thinking of the whole family during this time and hope all of the memories with Joe will bring comfort as the time goes on.
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Dana Santangelo
December 19, 2022
I am so saddened to hear of Joe's sudden passing. Though I have known Joe for many years as a colleague, we had only just begun to work together. Prayers to his family, I am sure he will be sorely missed.
Carl and Barb Grozinski
December 18, 2022
Joe was such a great man. We thought the world of him. Not only was he a great man and confident, but he truly cared for people. He will be greatly missed as a true friend. Heaven earned an Angel on December 12. I know he’ll continue to help others with his Angel wings. We’ll continue to love his spirit and miss him greatly every day❤. With love to him and his beautiful family. Carl and Barb Grozinski.
Jayne Jacquelyn Aras
December 18, 2022
Cousin Joe lead an exemplary life. He so loved his family and friends and counseled all who needed him. I cherish every memory . Words cannot express how he will be missed. He will forever remain in our hearts and never be forgotten. Rest In Peace my beautiful cousin.
Rick Drake
December 18, 2022
Joe was a good friend from Dickinson College and a brother in Raven's Claw since our senior year. We will miss him and his good cheer, common sense and voice of reason.
Marty Cunningham
December 17, 2022
After hearing the news I´m having trouble seeing thru the tears. I always felt a special bond since we played basketball together for four years. What a loss !
John McIntyre
December 16, 2022
Joe was truly one of the best!
Bruce Schauer
December 16, 2022
To the Pizonka family,
My heartfelt condolences at the passing of Joe, who I’ve proudly known over 30 years as a fellow member of Whitemarsh Valley CC.
Joe was one of those people who always greeted you with a smile on his face and a kind word. He will be sorely missed by so many of us.
Frank Lesher
December 16, 2022
I'm very saddened to learn of your loss of Joe, who was a good friend from our Devon Prep days. He always was a caring and intelligent gentleman. I'm shocked as we were just talking a few months ago about Skip Genuardi and your family possibly spending more time here in Vermont. Please accept my heartfelt condolences.
Jeffrey Cusumano
December 16, 2022
Barbara - So sorry to hear of Joe’s passing. Our thoughts, prayers and heart are with you remembering Joe. He was such a special guy. All our thoughts and love to your family. Jeffrey and Sandy Cusumano
Ted Kurpiel
December 16, 2022
I knew joe from our days at Devon Prep. A good guy. Always thought he would help who needed it. Will be missed.
BERNE SIERGIEJ, ESQ
December 16, 2022
Sorry for your Loss.
Joe was a great guy.
Terry Siman
December 16, 2022
I’m going to miss Joe in a big way. A great friend for 45 years since we rooted for each other as ADAs in Norristown. Relied on each other for so much. Had contact w Joe on the day before he passed and cannot fully absorb this shock. My condolences go out to Barbra and Joe’s sons and their families. Joe was so very proud of his sons. I’m grateful for having saved his voicemail messages and for all the great memories I have of time together. Hit ‘em straight, Joe.
William Mitchell
December 16, 2022
Joe was a good guy.
Glenn and Joan Soltis
December 16, 2022
Barbara, Joe was the definition of a true gentleman. While very accomplished in his work, to me he was a great golfer, traveling companion and FRIEND. We will miss him.
Bob and Barb Enoch
December 16, 2022
Barbra, so sorry to hear of the passing of Joe. What a great guy and have wonderful memories of him. All our sympathies to you and your family. Love, Barb and Bob Enoch
Manrico Troncelliti Jr
December 16, 2022
Joe was a tremendous lawyer and an outstanding person who was a great advisor and trusted friend. His sausage advised and wry sense of humor will be greatly missed.
Brad Hartmaier
December 15, 2022
I am without words at the loss of a great man. My condolences to his family and friends.
Terry Jordan
December 15, 2022
Joe was our family’s attorney for many years going back into the 80’s. He will be missed terribly. God Rest his soul. RIP JOE PIZONKA
Robert Silverman
December 15, 2022
I will miss you Joseph
Ed McQuarrie
December 15, 2022
My prayers and condolences go out to my cousin Barbra and the Pizonka family during this difficult time losing a loved one, may God bless you with strength to get through this. Joe was a great man who will be missed, but never forgotten, may he RIP in Heaven. Semper Fi!
Mark Timinski
December 15, 2022
I am very heartbroken to lose such a valuable friend for many years. He will be well missed.
George Falconero
December 15, 2022
Joe was always a gentleman who took great pride in his family . He was a dear friend who will be greatly missed and not forgotten .
Jill Anne Pisano
December 15, 2022
I’m shocked by the passing of Joe, my first cousin. He was a successfully accomplished great man in our Fragale family and he will be deeply missed. Hearts are hurting.
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24 Monument Avenue, Malvern, PA 19355
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