Joseph Tarris

Joseph Tarris, 99, Westmont, passed away  on  October 10, 2025.  Born March 2, 1926 in Pottsville, PA.  Son of Wassel and Catherine Tarris.  Preceded in death by his parents and six brothers, John, Michael, Nicholas, Peter, Paul and Metro and three sisters, Anna, Mary and Julia.

Preceded in death by Evelyn, his wife of 75 years.  Survived by daughter, Barbara Young, Westmont and son Joseph P. Tarris (Rosalie) Hummelstown; grandchildren, Christopher Michael (Cailin), David Raymond (Sofia) and Michael Joseph (Heather); and great-grandchildren, Logan Patrick, Parker Raymond, Connor Joseph, Walter Joseph and John David.

Joe received a Bachelor’s Degree at the Pennsylvania State University and his Masters at the University of Pittsburgh.  He spent 40 years as an educator which began as a science teacher at Portage Area High School (1948-54), Principal of Laurel Valley High School (1954-1958),  Assistant Principal of Johnstown High School, Principal of Garfield Junior High School, and Assistant Executive Director of Appalachia Intermediate Unit 8.  In 1982 he was named Executive  Director of IU8 and served in that position until his retirement in February of 1989.

Joe was a veteran of World War II and rose to the rank of Commander in the Navy Reserve in Johnstown.  He was a member of Our Mother of Sorrows Catholic Church for over 60 years, an avid golfer, loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather and will be missed.

At his request, there will be a private service at Frank Duca Funeral home with interment at Grandview Cemetery.

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