Joseph Erkman, JR., 88, of Butler passed away Thursday, May 30, 2019 at Sunnyview Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.
Born March 1, 1931 in Butler, he was a son of the late Joseph and Rose Tomosovich Erkman.
He was a Chief Engineer of the Metallurgist Department at Butler Armco. He retired in 1997 following 43 years of service.
He was a member of the American Legion, where he cooked many of meals for their special events. He was also a member of the Moose Lodge of Butler, along with the VFW and the Elks clubs.
He was a member of St. Paul Roman Catholic Church.
During his youth, he played football for the Butler Cubs Club and was a member of the championship team.
He was a four year veteran of the United States Navy during the Korean War. He was also awarded veteran of the year and was a recipient of the Purple Heart.
Surviving are his five children: Kathleen (Albert) Cooper of SC, Joseph (Lori) Erkman of Butler, Patrick ((Tammy) Erkman of Ellwood City, Daniel Erkman of FL., and Christopher Erkman of Butler.
Mother of his children, Patrice Erkman Crowe.
Five grandchildren, Desiree Erkman and Andrea Sansbury, Both of SC., Jewel Erkman of Butler, Lindsay (Brian) Slagle of Pittsburgh and Elizabeth Erkman of SC.
Two Great-grandchildren.
Three step-grandchildren: Derek, Erica and Cierra.
Numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
His special friend Donna Heasley’s daughter, Lori Heasley.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by three brothers and a sister. His special friend, Donna Heasley.
Friends will be received at the Geibel Funeral Home, 201` East Cunningham St. Butler, PA 16001 from 6-8 pm Monday. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 am Tuesday from St. Paul Roman Catholic Church, 128 North McKean St. Butler, PA.