HANOVER TWP. — Joseph John Barvitsky, 78, of Hanover Township, passed away on Wednesday, Dec. 7, 2016, at the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital.

He was born on July 12, 1938, in Nanticoke, a son of the late John L. and Helen (Tomczak) Barvitsky. He was a 1955 graduate of Hanover Township High School. Joseph was a U.S. Navy veteran. He was formerly employed by Friedman Express and as shipping supervisor at Muskin Pools. He was on the support staff at Hanover Area School District, retiring in 2011.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, John Barvitsky.

Surviving are his wife of 55 years, Virginia (Shaner) Barvitsky; and his daughter, Cheryl Barvitsky, of Hanover Township; and one niece; one cousin.

Private funeral services were held from the Nat & Gawlas Funeral Home, 89 Park Ave., Wilkes-Barre. The Rev. Joseph M. Kakareka, pastor of Holy Family Church in Sugar Notch, officiated. Private interment was held in St. Mary's Cemetery in Hanover Township.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the SPCA of Luzerne County, 524 E. Main St., Wilkes- Barre, PA 18702.

Online condolences may be sent by visiting Joseph's obituary at www.natandgawlas.com.