Obituaries published from the Schuylkill County area.
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Born in Ashland, PA on March 15, 1946, Joseph was the son of the late Matthew Davidow and Margaret Oakum (nee Fisher). He was the eldest of three children; preceded in death by his brother, Daniel Oakum, and survived by his sister, Kathryn Oakum.
He graduated from Morris Hills High School in 1964. Joseph married the late Margaret (Peggy) Davidow in 1971, and raised their family in Hopatcong, NJ. He was employed as a Plant Manager for Plastinetics Inc. in Totowa, NJ, later known as Spears Manufacturing in Hazleton, PA. Joseph was a lifetime member of the Northwood Fire Department in Hopatcong, NJ. He served on the Zoning Board in Hopatcong, as well. Nineteen years ago, he moved to Ringtown, PA.
Joseph was known for his strong work ethic, always being supportive to anyone in need and his willingness to teach others. Joseph embraced his community; he welcome neighbors, and often strangers, to his home as if they were family. Neighborhood children would gather at his home for games of basketball, among other outdoor activities. Joseph is described by his children as their "hero" and having been taught integrity, love and the importance of family. He always saw them through their ups and downs, and taught them to enjoy all life had to offer. While some may describe Joseph as an overachiever, he also had the ability to take a failure in stride. His generous nature was appreciated by many. To say he was loved would be an understatement. To say he will be missed is an even greater understatement.
One of Joseph's greatest accomplishments was being a father as he took extreme pride in his family. When his children were young, and even if he wasn't the easiest person in a given moment, if there was a child in need he always made sure they were fed, clothed and had a safe place to sleep. That alone spoke volumes for his character. Joseph enjoyed summer trips to Highpoint, NJ; vacations to Cape Cod, MA; summers at Knoebel's and activities with his cherished grandchildren and great-grandson.
Joseph was preceded in death by his loving wife of nearly 45 years, Peggy; his children and their families: Daughter, Catherine Duncan and husband, Paul Duncan, and their children, Sharon Duncan and Margaret Duncan, of Ringtown, PA; Daughter, Sharon Kafka of Hopatcong, NJ and her children, Joshua Kafka and Nicole Kafka; Daughter, Heather Davidow-Giuliano and husband, Daniel Giuliano of Ringtown, PA and granddaughter, Jillian Davidow; and son, Joseph Davidow and wife, Tara Davidow, of Hopatcong, NJ and their children, Joseph Davidow, Jr., Madison Davidow, Elijah Davidow and Alexa Davidow. Joseph is also survived by one great-grandson, Robert Duncan, and many nieces and nephews.
Interment services will be private and held at the convenience of the family.
In lieu of flowers, donations made in Joseph's name to Ringtown Valley Fire and Rescue, 46 W Main Street, Ringtown, PA 17967, would be appreciated.
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He was born in Pottsville a of the late Viola Gaumer.
He graduated for Pottsville Area High School.
He worked as a Supervisor for a heavy highway construction company, prior to retiring.
Denis was a member of St. Patrick Roman Catholic Church, Pottsville.
Throughout his life Denis's favorite hobby was traveling to Atlantic City, NJ where he enjoyed the resorts, casinos, and the boardwalk.
He was preceded in death by a daughter, Denise Gaumer.
Surviving are his wife, Kathleen A. Gaumer, St. Clair; 2 sons, Denis P. Gaumer and his wife Anne Marie, Brigantine, NJ; Cody Gaumer, Pottsville; a daughter, Holly Yoder and her husband Dale, Pottsville; 2 brothers, John Gaumer, and Ben Heffner and his wife Tish; grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
As per Denis's request there will be no services.
Arrangements are under the care of James E. Humphrey Funeral Home, Pottsville.
Please share your memories and condolences with Denis's family by signing the guest book at www.jehumphreyfuneralhome.com
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