In Memoriam, Joseph J. Pandolfo
Joseph John Pandolfo, 70, of East Stroudsburg PA, passed away on Tuesday, September 16, 2025
Born in Jersey City, NJ to his late parents Francis and Margaret (San Filippo) Pandolfo, Joe came into this world with a personality larger than life. He had unbounding energy, ambition and passion as well as being known for his jokes, pranks and constant teasing.
Joe was a communicant of St. Aedan’s Catholic Church in Jersey City. He was also a member of the Boy Scouts of America where he achieved Eagle Scout. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration at St. Peter’s University, Jersey City, NJ in 1976 followed by Masters Studies in Business/Marketing and Education at Kean University, in Union, NJ. In 1978 he entered Plumber’s Local 14 Union Trades School where he earned a Master Plumbers License.
In 1980 he married the love of his life, relocated to Rutherford, NJ and began his career as a Union Plumber. Joe was also a proud volunteer fireman in Rutherford for 12 years with Engine Company #4 where he made many lifelong friendships. In 1993 his entrepreneurial spirit led him to Shawnee PA where he put his heart and soul into starting his own business. His hard work and determination helped him fulfill a childhood dream of opening a family fun center. He owned and operated Pocono Go Karts and Play Park for 26 years. During this time he touched the lives of many of his young employees and set an example by his long hours, hard work and dedication. They will never forget his kindness guidance, generosity and pranks.
Joe was always ready to help anyone in need. If you did not know how to build/fix something, “Call Joe”, he would tell you.
Joe was a born teacher. He was an instructor of Amusement Ride Safety for the National Association of Amusement Ride Safety Officials as well as a certified trades instructor at his local Vocational School. After retiring from his amusement business, Joe went on to become a consultant/expert witness in amusement ride safety.
He was a member of St. Matthew’s Roman Catholic Church in East Stroudsburg.
Joe was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, cousin and friend who left this world far too soon. His absence leaves an ache in our hearts, but his spirit will continue to live on in the memories we share. We will never forget the happiness and joy he brought to our lives.
Joe is survived by his devoted wife, Madonna; his cherished daughters, Bridget Pandolfo and Kathleen Yoder; son in law, Ryan Yoder and his grandson, the light of his life, Roan Joseph. He is also survived by his brothers, Steven Pandolfo (Stephanie) and Frank Pandolfo (Anne Marie); sister Annette DeLuca (Thomas); sister in law, Joanne Boitano (Charles); brother in law William Larkin (late wife Karen) and Eileen Diehl (Kenneth); as well as many dear cousins, nieces, nephews, friends and his best friend, John Michota.
Visitation hours will be on Sunday, September 21st, from 1:00pm to 5:00pm at the William H. Clark Funeral Home, 1003 Main Street, Stroudsburg. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, September 22nd, at 10:30am at St. Matthew’s Roman Catholic Church, 78 Ridgeway Street, East Stroudsburg with Rev. Brian J.T. Clarke as celebrant. Cremation will follow.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Joseph’s name to St. Matthews food pantry (c/o St. Matthew’s Church),78 Ridgeway Street, East Stroudsburg, PA 18301.