Joseph A. Demnitski, known by many as "Trooper Joe", 84, of Barnesville, PA, passed away Wednesday, June 22nd, peacefully, at his residence.

Joseph was born in Wilkes Barre, PA on June 22, 1932, son of the late Frances (Sholvinski) and Teofil Demnitski.

He was a member of St. John the Baptist Polish National Catholic Church Frackville.

Joe graduated from Coughlin High School Class of 1950. He served in the US Army during the Korean War and was part of the 109th Field Artillery Battalion of Wilkes Barre. He was a survivor of a horrific troop train accident. It was struck by a passenger train the "Spirit of St. Louis" in Ohio where 33 soldiers were killed in September of 1950.

He then proceeded to graduate from the Pennsylvania State Police Academy and began his 38 year career as a Pennsylvania State Trooper, stationed with Troop L Reading and the Frackville Barracks. During the second half of his career, he was known as "Trooper Joe". He was an educator who visited elementary schools throughout Eastern Pennsylvania and delivered the message of safety to children with his interactive and engaging props. Joe was also a big supporter and counselor of the State Police Camp Cadet Summer program.

Joe was a devoted fan of the Phillies and Eagles. In his younger days he also enjoyed fishing, gardening, reading especially about World War II.

He was the husband of Marie (Rinish) Demnitski, who is originally from Laflin Pa. They celebrated their 58th wedding anniversary in October of 2015.

Joseph is survived by two daughters, Donna Zelonis, fiancée of Mike Major, of Frackville; Doreen, wife of David Brill, of Macungie, a son, Joseph, husband of Kim, of Atlanta GA; by a grandson Brad Zelonis husband of Rachel, and a great granddaughter Isabelle.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. John the Baptist Polish National Catholic Church, Frackville, at 10 am on Monday, June 27th, with Father Richard Wosiak officiating.

Friends may call Sunday 6 to 8 pm and Monday 9 am, at the Louis D. Truskowsky Funeral Home & Crematory Inc. Mahanoy City.

Interment will be in Skyview Memorial Park Tamaqua.

Family prefers donations to Hospice of Central Pennsylvania. www.hospiceofcentralpa.org

Louis D. Truskowsky Funeral Home & Crematory Inc. Mahanoy City is in charge of arrangements. Visit www.truskowskyfuneralhome.com to sign the guest book, send sympathy cards, or view Video Tribute.