Joseph Fricker Jr.

Joseph Fricker Jr.

May 15, 1937 - December 09, 2024

Visitation: Friends will be received Monday December 16, 2024 from 2 PM to 4 PM and 6 PM to 8 PM at Devlin Funeral Home, 806 Perry Hwy

Service: Mass of Christian Burial Tuesday December 17th 10 AM at St. Teresa of Avila Church, Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish

Joe Fricker, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, son, and friend, passed away peacefully on Monday at the age of 87, surrounded by family, friends, and an abundance of love.

A proud Army veteran, his life was defined by his devotion to others. As the eldest of three, he took on the role of caretaker for his family, including his father after a stroke that left him unable to care for himself.

Joe worked hard to put himself through Carnegie Mellon University, earning a degree in mathematics and later a J.D from Duquesne University. Though he spent over forty years as an attorney, it was his first job with the city that earned him the nickname of “The Cobra,” a testament to his calm demeanor and piercing intellect.

Joe’s love story with Mary began unexpectedly at a Young Republicans event. Despite both being Democrats, they bonded over free food and drinks. Their connection was immediate; a serendipitous second meeting and a NYE date that ended in a spontaneous proposal sealed their fates. After a whirlwind engagement they were married and spent the next 52 years together, traveling the world and sharing countless adventures.

As a father, Joe’s devotion was unmatched. Despite his demanding career, he was always available for family—whether coaching softball, roasting chestnuts at Christmas, or planning elaborate family vacations.

His love for Mary and his family remained unwavering, especially when he cared for Mary during her prolonged illness, even undergoing a kidney transplant so he could stay by her side.

Music was a defining thread throughout Joe’s life. Whether harmonizing with friends in a cozy living room or performing on stage, he found immense joy in sharing melodies and creating beautiful moments through song. His barbershop singing was a particular passion, bringing him closer to a community that cherished the art of vocal harmony.

As an ardent lover of eating and cooking, he was always eager to try new cuisines and delicacies on his plate and unique ingredients and techniques in the kitchen. His culinary experiments were often inspired by the seasons, utilizing fresh produce from his own garden. He delighted friends and family with meals that were not only delicious but also infused with love and creativity.

Joe’s legacy of love, kindness, generosity, and devotion will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Joe is survived by his daughter, Bethany DiLucente, son-in-law Eric DiLucente, and granddaughters Grace and Madelyn Zavidny. He was preceded in death by his wife Mary Fricker, daughter Alison Zavidny, sister Francis Fricker, and parents Stella and Joseph A. Fricker.

Friends will be received December 16th from 2-4 PM and 6-8 PM at Devlin Funeral Home, 806 Perry Hwy. Being a devout Catholic, Joe’s funeral service will be held at St. Theresa of Avila, Our Lady of Mt. Carmel at 10AM Tuesday, December 17th. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Harmony Line Chorus, 4212 Tanglewood Dr, Allison Park, PA 15101, in his honor.

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