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Joseph Grohal Obituary

Joseph E. Grohal, 80, of Canonsburg, passed away Thursday, September 4, 2025, due to complications from Parkinson's disease. Born in Canonsburg September 14, 1944, he was a son of the late Joseph and Frances Novak Grohal. Joe grew up in Strabane and graduated from Canon-McMillan High School, Class of 1962. He went on to attend Penn State University, where he ran track and earned a Bachelor's degree in Secondary Education and Chemistry. Joe returned to his hometown to teach at Canon-McMillan High School, where he dedicated 33 years to educating students and coaching the track team. After retiring in 1999, he could often be found riding a lawn mower at Oak Spring Cemetery, continuing to serve his community in quiet, meaningful ways. On July 8, 1972, Joe married Patricia "Patty" Kutch, who survives. A devoted member of Sacred Heart of Jesus Polish National Catholic Church, Joe served as a past chairman and Sunday school teacher. He was also active in several organizations, including KSKJ, SNPJ, and the White Eagles bowling leagues. As a member of the PNU, he cherished afternoons spent socializing with friends. Joe enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening, and spending time outdoors, but nothing brought him more joy than his grandchildren. He was also an avid Pittsburgh Pirates and Steelers fan. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his son, Joe (Liz) Grohal of Stewartstown; his daughter, Jill (David) Cowan of Hillsborough, N.C.; and six beloved grandchildren, Jonathan Cowan, Matthew Grohal, Ashley Cowan, Joshua Cowan, Julia Grohal, and Addison Cowan. He is also survived by his sister, Fran (Paul) Sarvas of Allison Park; brothers-in-law, Ken (Vicki) Kutch of Ponte Vedra, Fla., and Ray (Judy) Kutch of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho; as well as several nieces and nephews. Friends will be received from 3 to 7 p.m. Friday, September 12, in Sollon Funeral and Cremation Services, LTD, 30 East College Street, Canonsburg, Phillip L. Sollon, supervisor, 724-746-1000, where departing prayers will take place at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, September 13, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial celebrated at 10 a.m. in Sacred Heart of Jesus Polish National Catholic Church. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Sacred Heart of Jesus Polish National Catholic Church, 171 East College Street, Canonsburg, PA 15317. To leave condolences for the family, please visit www.sollon.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Observer-Reporter from Sep. 10 to Sep. 11, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
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5 Entries

Bob Schmidt

September 15, 2025

My deepest condolences to Patty and the entire Grohal family.
Joe and I taught together at Canon Mac. He had a great sense of humor and communicated many humorous stories in the teacher´s lounge. His stories of growing up in Strabane were always funny. He was extremely supportive of all his students and to the track program.
He will be sadly missed by all who knew him. Rest in peace.

Sue (Shutok) Duckworth

September 13, 2025

I remember having Mr. Grohal in school. He was a good teacher and great person. He always cared very much about his students and went above and beyond to make sure they succeeded. Patty, So sorry for your loss.

Andrea Martin (Lauricia)

September 12, 2025

My deepest sympathies for your loss. Joe and I were faculty colleagues at CM in the 60´s- 70´s. And of course you and I were childhood neighbors in the east end.

Billy Dee

September 11, 2025

May coach Joey rest in peace. A good man and role model to many.

Wallie Pedeski Polinski

September 11, 2025

Patty, Mary Fran and families, you have my deepest sympathies. My dad always enjoyed going finishing with Joe and his dad.

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Memorial Events
for Joseph Grohal

Sep

12

Visitation

3:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Sollon Funeral and Cremation Services

30 East College Street, Canonsburg, PA 15317

Sep

13

Service

9:30 a.m. - 9:45 a.m.

Sollon Funeral and Cremation Services

30 East College Street, Canonsburg, PA 15317

Sep

13

Mass of Christian Burial

10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Sacred Heart of Jesus Polish National Catholic Church

171 East College Street, Canonsburg, PA 15317

Funeral services provided by:

Sollon Funeral and Cremation Service, Ltd.

30 East College St, Canonsburg, PA 15317

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