Obituary

Orawiec, Joseph Donald Sr, 83, Mineral Point, passed away September 8, 2025. Born April 4, 1942 in Windber, Joe was brought into the world the same way he left it, a spitfire. Despite a tumultuous upbringing, he overcame many trials and tribulations, becoming a beloved father and grandfather along the way. Joe is preceded in death by his mother, Verna (Repko) Oraweic; the love of his life, Edith Eileen Smay-Grief; and his daughter Nancy Ling (Grief-Varner). He is survived by his children, Velma (Tuddy) Grief, Tina Knepper (Dave), Joseph Orawiec Jr (Amanda); grandchildren Scott Wentz, Tricia Wentz (Doug Sauro), Jeremy Varner (Michele Stasik), Zachary Varner, Ashley Varner (Griffin Jennings), Kelsey Knepper (Nick Cekada), Kara Knepper, Kathleen Holgash (Ryan), Joseph Paul Orawiec (Carrie Fye), Shyanna Orawiec (Braxton Russell), Kayliann Orawiec, Bradyn Orawiec, and Madalyn Orawiec. His legacy lives on in ten great grandchildren, ten great great grandchildren, and the blessing of two more on the way. At a young age, Joe began serving in the Navy. A feat he was particularly proud of during his life. He then went on to work in the coal mines at home. While Joe worked hard to build a life for himself and his family, everything in his life was a labor of love. Joe took immense pleasure in all things baseball and football, with a particular fondness for the Steelers. He was famously stubborn, but incredibly devoted to those he loved. He loved fiercely, and felt the same in return for the entirety of his life. Joe enjoyed spending time in the club, a lifetime member of VFW, American Legion Post 970, and the Woodvale AC club. Family would like to extend a special thanks to Johnstown/Altoona VA, home based care team, Richland Healthcare, and AseraCare Hospice. Graveside service will be held Tuesday, September 16th, at 1pm, Dunlo Cemetery, Nancy Hoover officiating. Arrangements in care of Hindman Funeral Homes & Crematory, Inc., “Exclusive Provider of Veterans and Family Memorial Care.” Condolences may be made at HindmanFuneralHomes.com