Obituary of Joseph John Yafchak

Obituary for Joseph J. Yafchak Sr.

Joseph “Joe” J. Yafchak Sr., 89, passed away on July 11, 2019.  He was born in Latrobe Pennsylvania to the late Joseph and Emma (Horwat) Yafchak.  He was living at Carolina Gardens Assisted Living Facility where he could be closer to his daughter.  Joe was an avid Ham Radio Operator and made many friends through his communications.  Joe was a lifetime member of AARL with a General Class License.  A lover of electronics and very tech-minded, he enjoyed playing on the computer most days when not communicating with his friends around the world from his “ham shack”.  Joe and his wife Colleen enjoyed going camping, riding their bikes, taking nature walks as well as bird watching in the back yard.  As a couple they were avid exercisers up until Colleen fell ill December of 2017. 

Joseph Yafchak was a proud military veteran, serving honorably in the United States Air Force in the early 1960’s as an aircraft mechanic.  Following his military service, Joe attended Ohio State University majoring in engineering.  He worked for North American Rockwell in the mid 1960’s, before he was transferred to Titusville, Florida in 1965 to take part in special projects on several of the Apollo missions at Kennedy Space Center.

Joe was predeceased by his devoted wife and the love of his life of 68 years, Colleen Eisaman Yafchak who passed away on March 28, 2018, and a sister Mary Marshall.

He is survived by his youngest sister Emma E. Yafchak of Latrobe, PA., sons Joseph Yafchak Jr. (Nancy), of Greensburg, PA., and Larry Yafchak Sr., (Vickie) of Latrobe, PA., Valerie Y Kendrick (Gary) of Elgin, SC., grandson Larry Yafchak Jr., (Ashely), granddaughter Jennifer Yafchak and great grandson Tristan Yafchak. He also leaves behind many family members to treasure his memory.

Joe requested no funeral services but you may make a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association in this honor.  South Carolina Cremation Society, 3223 Sunset Blvd, Suite 104, West Columbia, SC 29169 is assisting the family.