Joseph J. Gorka

Joseph John Gorka, Sr. The World's Greatest Man went to Heaven on January 1, 2025, at 91 years old. Joe was born on June 23, 1933, in the Fishtown section of Philadelphia, PA, against all odds. Yet, he did not allow circumstances to dictate his life. Joe forged a life to be admired and honored through hard work, honesty, and resilience. These are just a few of his most excellent achievements: He served in the US Army and was stationed in Germany during the Korean War. He was a dedicated PA State Trooper. He retired after 26 years as a Lieutenant from the Philadelphia Police Department. He worked for the US Marshall Security Services for 10 years. He was also the President of the Polish Police Association for 10 years, and a member of the American Legion.. He was a member of many other organizations and worked multiple jobs throughout his years to provide for his family. Believe it or not, Joe had time for his favorite hobbies. He started the family tradition of camping at Rosemount and Down the Shore. While hunting and playing a game of pool, he enjoyed the companionship of his friends. He loved boating and fishing for flounder. Due to his avid reading of all things interesting, he was a walking book of knowledge. He would point the way precisely if you needed directions and he would note every monument along the way. He was a detailed storyteller and consistently added to his ancestry historical documents. He was a dependable man who selflessly did a million good things for family, friends, and strangers. We will tuck this in our hearts forever. By far, Joe Sr. considered his loftiest accomplishment was when he established the Gorka Family on "The Twelfth of Never." He leaves his strength behind to his "Bride MARE" of 66 years, Maryann Galezniak. Together, they raised three kind-hearted children, MaryJo Donahue (Brian), Joseph Jr (Angel), and Jeanette Nolte (Ron Lange), with Christian values and tough love. Joe demonstrated to his children how to "do it yourself" in a very organized manner. Joe's precious grandson, Trevor, predeceased him. He was also preceded in death by his siblings Rosie, Leon, and Stanley Sadowski. His sister, Dolores (Downey), survives him. He loved his family fiercely-even his in-laws! Grandpop leaves behind fun memories and wisdom in the hearts of his cherished grandchildren: Amber, Joseph III, Krystle, David, MaryKate, and Jonathan. He also had five sweet great-grandchildren. He set an example of loyalty, forgiveness, and being a great provider. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a viewing Tuesday, January 7, 2025, 10am to 11:30am at Infant Jesus Parish at St. Margaret's Church, 3rd and Beech Streets, Woodbury Heights. Mass of Christian Burial 11:30am at the church. Joe's Interment will be at the Gloucester County Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Williamstown, NJ. We thank you for your service and exemplary life, Mr. Gorka. Indeed, you were The World's Greatest Man. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention at https://afsp.org/about-afsp/ or the National Kidney Foundation at https://www.kidney.org/.

Joseph J. Gorka

June 23, 1933 - January 1, 2025