Joseph H.Koester
OBITUARY
Joseph H. Koester, 86, of South Scranton, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 27th, at Sacred Heart Hospice surrounded by his family.
Born on November 6, 1939 in Buffalo, NY, Joseph was the beloved husband of Patricia for 63 years. He was the son of the late Chris and Marie Koester, Scranton. Joe graduated from St. Mary’s of the Assumption High School in 1957 and was employed in the automotive industry for over 40 years.
He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, son, brother, and uncle. His family meant everything to him. He will be remembered by many for his kindness, dedication, generosity and love of his family.
He is survived by wife, Patricia (formerly O’Leary); daughters: Kelly McDonough and husband Jack, Teri Maldonato and husband John, all of Dunmore; grandchildren: Matt Maldonato and wife Angela, Jack McDonough, Nick Maldonato and wife Hayley, and Kayleigh McDonough, all of Pennsylvania; and two great-grandchildren: Cora Maldonato and Milo Maldonato.
He is survived by a brother, Ed Koester and wife Sandy, Springfield, Illinois, and brother-in-law Bob O’Leary and wife Linda, Waverly, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by mother Helen Koelsch, brother Bob Koester and wife Ann, and brother Paul Koester and wife Sharon.
A Mass in celebration of his life will be held on February 14 at 11:00am at St. Ann’s Basilica, Scranton.
In remembrance of his many years of helping at St. Francis kitchen and his compassion for the homeless and those in need, memorial contributions can be made to St. Francis of Assisi Kitchen, Scranton.
He will be deeply missed by family and friends and forever loved.
Joseph H. Koester
January 27, 2026