Joseph L. Deitrich, 79 – Avid Fisherman

Joseph L. Deitrich, 79, of Tamaqua, died on Wednesday, June 10, 2020 at home.

He was the husband of Joan (nee Epler) Deitrich to whom he was married 57 years. Born in Coaldale on December 7, 1940, Joe was a son of the late Leo and Dorothy (nee Keip) Dietrich.

A 1958 graduate of Tamaqua High School, he worked for Mack Trucks in Allentown, PA, retiring in 2000 from their plant in Macungie, PA. Joe was a member of The Parish of St. John XXIII, Tamaqua; the East End Fire Company, Tamaqua; the Lansford St. Ann’s Pinochle Club; the Burger King Breakfast Club, Tamaqua; and a former member and president of the Tamaqua Italian Club.

He was a member of the Lehigh River Stocking Association and an avid fisherman on the Lackawaxen River. Joe was a diehard Phillies and Eagles fan and enjoyed visiting the casinos.

In addition to his wife, Joan, he is survived by son, Jeffrey Deitrich of Tamaqua; daughters, Judi Deitrich and her spouse, Kristin Crossett of Pardeesville, PA and Jennifer Fleming and her husband, William of Philadelpia, PA; grandchildren, Andrew Deitrich, Ethan Deitrich, and Jamison Brennan; great granddaughter, Avery Deitrich; brother, John Dietrich and his wife, Carol of Tamaqua; and several nephews and nieces.

Joe was predeceased by son, Joseph, Jr. in 1991 and sister, Lillian Yelsh.

The family has requested no flowers. Memorials in his name may be made to The Parish of St. John XXIII, 307 Pine Street, Tamaqua, PA 18252. Online condolences may be made at www.zgfuneralhome.com.