Joseph Organiscak

Joseph Jacob Organiscak believed in persistence, problem-solving, and the joy of adventure. On July 19th 2025, he passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of his family and the legacy of a life devoted to learning, loyalty, and quiet strength.

Born on November 4, 1954, in Monongahela, Pennsylvania to Joseph and Julia Organiscak, Joe carried his sharp mind and curiosity into every stage of life. He graduated from Bentworth High School in 1972 before studying Computer Science at Pennsylvania State University, where he graduated in 1976. That degree launched a long career in information technology. Over the years he worked for several companies, most notably spending 19 years with Ashland Chemical. He led large teams across complex projects and was respected for his steady leadership and ability to solve challenges.

Outside of work, Joe’s true joy was in the experiences he shared with his family. He taught his son to ski at the age of three, a story he proudly told again and again. He introduced him to dirt bikes, encouraging confidence and adventure in every ride. He also loved watching his son play goalie in middle and high school lacrosse, talking about those games with pride that never seemed to run out. For Joe, these were never just pastimes. They were the heartbeat of his family life, the moments he treasured most.

His devotion to his wife, Melissa, whom he was married to for 38 years, was constant and unshakable. He showed his love in small, steady ways such as playing love songs and saying they were for her, giving her cards over the years, and proudly pointing her out as if to remind everyone how lucky he felt. In their final years together, he rarely left her side, a presence that spoke more loudly than words ever could.

Joe was tall and lanky, with a deep voice and a Pennsylvania way of pronouncing words such as “motor-sackle” instead of motorcycle. He taught lessons in how he lived: that persistence matters, that challenges are best met with patience, and that loyalty is one of life’s greatest strengths. He taught adventure by living it. He taught love by giving it. And in his passing, he reminds us of the importance of shared stories, laughter, and the bonds of family.

Joe is reunited now with his beloved wife, Melissa Organiscak, who preceded him in death. He is survived by his son, Matthew Organiscak, and daughter-in-law, Erika Heintz; his siblings Lorraine (Nick) Havrilla, Agnes (Allen) Rusilko, John (Joan) Organiscak; his sister-in-law Eleanor (Dan) Bails; and a wide circle of nieces, nephews, and extended family who will miss his wisdom, loyalty, and love.

A memorial service will be held on September 19th at St Brigid of Kildare Church. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages you to honor Joe by teaching someone something you love, just as he did all his life.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a charity for families of loved ones suffering with dementia or a charity for caregivers of loved ones.