Joseph Zebertavage Sr.

Joseph Charles Zebertavage, Sr., 97, passed away March 3, 2023 in his Reading residence, surrounded by his loving family. He was the husband of the late Mary (Pulaski) Zebertavage, who passed away in 2015. Born February 2, 1926, in Seltzer City, PA, he was the son of Anthony and Petrenella Beatrice (Banket) Zebertavage. Joseph attended St. Francis of Assisi middle School in Minersville and Pottsville High School. He left high school his senior year to go to Stevens Trade School in Lancaster then left to join the Navy. He later went back to Stevens Trade School after being discharged in April 5, 1946 and graduated June 1947, and later received the Achievement Award Trophy. His wife Mary stayed home taking care of the 5 kids and working part time ironing and when Joe came home from work, she would do all of his paperwork so he would be ready to go back to work in the morning. Joseph was the owner of Zeb Machine Company in Muhlenberg Township, later moving to Leesport before retiring in 1991. He was a parishioner of Holy Guardian Angels R.C. Church. Joe was a master dart thrower for HGA dart league and the Laureldale Athletic Association, once throwing 7 perfect games. He was also the president of the playground association in Reading and was instrumental in moving what is now the Northmont Playground from the Polymer property. Surviving are his children: Joan M., wife of Charles W. Anderton, Leesport; David A., husband of Melissa M. Zebertavage, Bernville; Brian A. Zebertavage, Fiance of Janet Schigner of Sugar Loaf ; and his daughter-in-law, Janice E. Zebertavage, Bern Township. Also surviving are his seven grandchildren: Brett, Julie, Eric, Meghan, Devin, Austin, and Lynae; and four great-grandchildren: Lyndsay, Connor, Payton, and Chase also survive him. Joseph was predeceased by his daughter, Sharon A. Zebertavage, his son, Joseph C. Zebertavage, Jr., siblings: Anna M. Panchari, Helen Harris, Margaret H. Lengle and Anthony J. Zebertavage; granddaughter Sarah and great grandson Noah. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday at 1pm in the Chapel of Resurrection, 3139 Kutztown Rd, Reading, PA 19605. A viewing will be from 10:30am until 12:30 pm in the Stitzel Funeral Home, 3300 Kutztown Road, Laureldale PA 19605. Burial will be celebrated privately with entombment at Gethsemane Mausoleum. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to a charity of choice. Online condolences may be recorded at www.stitzelfamilyfuneralhomes.com.