Joseph A. Wharton

Joseph A. Wharton, 92, Hollidaysburg, passed away Thursday at Garvey Manor. He was born in Bellwood, son of the late George O. and Hilda Ann (Beck) Wharton. He later married Sarah Jane Simm and she preceded him in death in 2017.

He is survived by 5 sons: Gregory (Connie) Wharton, Joseph (Carolyn) Wharton II, Jeffrey (Brenda) Wharton, Johnathan Wharton and Christopher (Gretchen) Wharton; 2 daughters: Janice (Rick) Niewola and Mary (Kevin) Vancil; 15 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and a sister, Patricia Partner.

Joe was preceded in death by two brothers, William and Paul Wharton; a sister, Helen Rossi; and a daughter in law, Dena.

Joe was a 1949 graduate of Bellwood High School. He married in 1955 and served in the US Navy during the Korean War. He worked as a mechanical engineer and retired from the National Cash Register with over 40 years of service.

He enjoyed working on the farm, fishing, hunting, gardening and spending time with his family.

Joe was a member of Holy Rosary Catholic Church.

Friends will be received from 2-4pm and 6-8pm Thursday, February 8, 2024 in the Santella Funeral Home, where a vigil for the deceased will be held. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 am Friday, February 9, 2024 at Holy Rosary Church, 900 N 4th St, Altoona, PA 16601, Fr. Michael Pleva officiating.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to “Sally Wharton Scholarship Endowment” at Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Joseph A. Wharton, please visit our floral store.