Joseph Gornik

Surrounded by his family, Joseph Robert Gornik of Steelton, PA passed away peacefully in his home on February 19, 2021. He was 83 years old.

Joseph (Joe) is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Margie (Matjasic) Gornik, son Joseph (Joey), two half-sisters, Patricia Little and Barbara Highfield of Harrisburg, PA, a half-brother, Lawrence Strawn of Washington, PA, and three grandchildren, Joseph and Stephen Gornik of Lehigh Acres, Fl, and Andrea Gornik of Claremont, CA. He is also survived by numerous cousins, nieces and nephews, and many friends who were fortunate to cross his path.

Joe was born September 3, 1937 and preceded in death by his mother, Ann Suknaic James as well as his loving grandparents, Mary and Martin Gornik.

Joe was a loving husband, father, brother, grandfather, uncle and friend and a member of Prince of Peace Roman Catholic Parish. He was a kind, generous, compassionate and caring man. Joe worked for 4 railroads; Pennsylvania Railroad, Penn Central Railroad, Conrail and he eventually retired from Norfolk Southern Railroad where he served as a dispatcher for 34 years. He was also an avid saltwater fisherman who called Montauk his favorite place to fish. Joe enjoyed antiquing, flea markets, and garage sales. He was a veteran of the United States Army and a member of KSKJ lodge. Joe will be remembered by those closest to him for his honor, integrity and compassion.

The family would like to pay special thanks to John Matjasic, Hank Ward, Homeland Hospice and all caregivers for their efforts, care and dedication.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, February 23, 2021 at 11:30 am in Prince of Peace-Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Roman Catholic Church, 815 S. Second St., Steelton, PA with Very Rev. David L. Danneker, his Pastor as Celebrant. Burial will be in Indiantown Gap National Cemetery with full military honors. A viewing will be held on Tuesday from 10:00 am until 11:00 am in Wiedeman Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 357 South Harrisburg Street, OBERLIN, PA 17113. COVID-19 restrictions will be enforced. Face masks and social distancing will be required.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Homeland Hospice, 2300 Vartan Way, Harrisburg, PA 17110 or St. Jude''s Children''s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-9959.