Apr 4, 2024

Uniontown

1929-2024

Joseph “Joe” Zeppo, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great- grandfather, passed away peacefully Tuesday, April 2, 2024, in his home, surrounded by his family, at the age of 95. His legacy is etched in the hearts of those who knew him, and his impact will resonate for generations to come.

Born March 29, 1929, Joe, a life-long resident of Uniontown, graduated from the Uniontown Area High School. His entrepreneurial spirit, strong work ethic, and unwavering values attributed to his successful start-up and operation of several business endeavors in downtown Uniontown for more than 60 years. His first business was a gas service station on Morgantown Street that eventually expanded to three.

Interested in a new business opportunity, Joe divested his interest in the gas service stations and started a new family-owned business with his wife, Joan, by opening the city’s first Western Auto store in downtown Uniontown.

Later, he transitioned the store to Zep’s Furniture, which remains in downtown Uniontown today under the ownership of his youngest son, David. Joe made a special effort to know every customer by name and took great care to meet their needs and accommodate their requests. He truly appreciated and valued their patronage.

Joe’s greatest joy was his family. He married his high school sweetheart, Joan Oleskiewicz, in 1949. Their enduring love story spanned over 74 years, something only a lucky few are fortunate to experience. Virtually inseparable, Joan stood by his side, a pillar of strength and grace, as they lived, worked, played, and raised their three children: Philip, Sandi, and David.

As a father, Joe was both firm and tender. He taught his children the value of integrity, kindness, and resilience. He also instilled in them his sense of fun and love of laughter. His grandchildren and great- grandchildren adored their “Pap-Pap” and cherished the stories he shared about his life experiences.

Although operating a small family-owned business left little time for hobbies, Joe loved playing and watching golf, duck-pin bowling in his early years, was an avid Steelers fan, and spent many a Saturday on the dance floor with the love of his life. They were members of, and attended church services at, Abundant Life Church, and were long-time members of the Elks Club.

Joe’s legacy extends beyond his accomplishments and hobbies. He leaves behind a blueprint for living a life of purpose, love, kindness, and resilience. His unwavering commitment to family and friends serves as an inspiration to all who knew him.

Preceding him in death were his parents, Philomena D’Andria and Albert Zeppo; two brothers, Philip and John Zeppo; and one sister, Dorothy Zeppo Marriotti.

Left to cherish his memories are his devoted wife of 74+ years, Joan Oleskiewicz Zeppo; son, Philip (Sharyn) Zeppo of Ohio; daughter, Sandra (George) Yezbak of North Carolina; son, David (Tina) Zeppo of Uniontown; grandchildren, Nicole Zeppo and Tania (Michael) Bertolone of Ohio, and Tania Wargo of Uniontown; great-grandchildren, Zach Zeppo, Giada Bertolone, Ty Rice, and EJ Barbosa.

The family extends our heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate team at WVU Hospice, with special thanks to Melissa, Brandy, Bethany, and Laura for their compassionate care and support. Their kindness and dedication eased our hearts as we navigated this difficult journey.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the ANDREW D. FERGUSON FUNERAL HOME in Uniontown, where family and friends will be received from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, April 5. Visitation will continue, in the funeral home, from 10 to 11 a.m., the time of a service celebrating Joe’s life, Saturday, April 6, with Pastor Ed Lakota officiating. Interment will follow in LaFayette Memorial Park, Brier Hill.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the WVU Hospice Program or a charity of one’s choice.

Memories and condolences can be shared with the family at adferguson.com and on the funeral home Facebook page.