Joseph A. Tabacek

1930 - 2026

Joseph A. Tabacek, of Natrona Heights, died peacefully on Jan. 2, 2026, surrounded by family. Born Sept. 15, 1930, in Springdale, he lived in the area until moving to Lewes, DE, in 1997, Hamilton, OH, in 2007, and back home in 2017. A graduate of Springdale High School class of 1948, he was employed by Gulf Research & Development Company from 1948 until 1985, retiring as a catalyst specialist and co-owner of nine patents. Joe was a member of the Pennsylvania Air National Guard for 34 years. Promoted to Lt. Colonel in 1977, he retired from the 112th Tactical Fighter Group as Commander of the Resource Management Squadron in 1985. Joe had many talents and passions. He was a licensed realtor for years, helping new Gulf and ANG staff find homes; he loved golf, even scoring a hole-in-one at 61; and he had a special fondness for dogs once he retired and could enjoy spending time with them. But most of all, he loved his family dearly and dedicated his life to providing and caring for them. Joe was the eldest child of Joseph B. and Elizabeth (Mraz) Tabacek. He was also preceded in death by his daughter, Mary Lynn Tabacek; and his brother, Paul Tabacek. He is survived by his loving wife of 73 years, Antoinette (Callahan) Tabacek. He is also survived by his daughters, Terri (Robert) Dubnicay, of New Kensington, Joan Tabacek of Natrona Heights, and Susan (John) Costantino of Hamilton, OH; sisters, Elizabeth Panian of Natrona Heights and Dorothy Jeanne (Syl) Jancech of Cheswick; sister-in-law, Terrye Tabacek of Allegheny Township; grandsons, Richard J. Horzempa of New Kensington and Robert G. (Anastasia) Dubnicay of Pittsburgh; and great-grandson, Oscar Dubnicay. Friends and relatives will be received from 6 to 8 p.m., Monday, Jan. 5, 2026, at REDMOND FUNERAL HOME INC., 524 High St., Freeport. Mass will be held at 11 a.m., Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2026, at St. Mary, Mother of God Church in Freeport, PA, with Father Daniel Blout officiating. Interment will follow at Our Lady of Hope Cemetery in Tarentum. In lieu of flowers, Joe's family suggests that memorial contributions be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or Animal Protectors of Allegheny Valley. To send an online condolence, please visit www.redmondfuneralhomeinc.com.