Joseph “Griz” Jaworski

Joseph “Griz” Jaworski, 80, of Pittston, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, January 6, 2026.  Born in Duryea on May 1, 1945, he was the son of the late John and Marie (Kazanowska) Jaworski.

Joe was a graduate of Northeast High School, Class of 1963.  In his younger years, Joe worked at the Murray Plant, Scranton.  He later worked as a truck driver and a school bus driver for the Yatesville Bus Company before retiring from Schott Optical in Duryea after more than 30 years of dedicated service.

Joe was actively involved with the UFCW Union, where he served as an officer and was a member of the negotiating committee.  He enjoyed the outdoors and was a longtime member of the Briarwood Sportsman’s Club.  A devoted sports fan, Joe proudly supported the Pittsburgh Steelers and Penn State football. 

For many years, Joe brought joy to others portraying Santa Claus during the holidays for the Pittston Area School District, privately, and for many other organizations.  He also served his community as a volunteer firefighter and member of the underwater scuba department for the Excelsior Hose Company in Duryea. 

Joe loved riding his motorcycle and participated in many local motorcycling events and was the recipient of the “Iron Butt Award”. Known for his kindness and willingness to help anyone in need, Joe was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother and friend.  He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his brother, John Jaworski.

He is survived by his wife of 25 years, Harriet (Algar) Jaworski; his children:  Joseph Jaworski and his wife Mindy of Taylor; Michael Jaworski of Avoca; Laura Tisdel and her husband Dave of Old Forge; David Jaworski and his wife Cheryl of Avoca; Amber Jaworski of Wilkes-Barre; and Brian Jaworski and his wife Michele of Jenkins Twp. He is also survived by 15 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren.  Also surviving are his sisters:  Jean Rupe of Olyphant; Marie Heberling and her husband Jake of Buffalo, NY; and Lorraine Jaworski of Laporte, PA; and his brothers:  Stanley Jaworski and his wife Roseanne of West Pittston; and Edwin Jaworski and his wife Judy of Virginia Beach, along with and several nieces and nephews.

Joe’s family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the nurses and staff of Residential Hospice for their exceptional care, kindness and compassion.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the SPCA of Luzerne County, 524 E. Main St., Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702 or a charity of the donor’s choice.

Memorial services for Joe will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at 4:00pm at Kiesinger Funeral Services, Inc., 255 McAlpine St., Duryea, with Rev. Scott Ryan officiating. Friends may call for visitation Saturday afternoon from 2:00pm until time of service.

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