Joseph F. Sherrick

Joseph F. "Joe" Sherrick, 84, of Mechanicsburg, passed away on Saturday, May 24, 2025  at Penn State Holy Spirit Medical Center. 

Joe was a native of Harrisburg and graduated from Harrisburg Catholic High School. He left Pennsylvania to attend John Carroll University in Ohio. In the summers, Joe worked as a camp counselor for children with disabilities and as a lifeguard at the beach. Joe was preceded in death by his parents David Jr. and Pauline (Smarsh) Sherrick and his siblings – John, Francis, James, David, Thomas, and Mary Jo. Joe’s brother, Philip, is the sole surviving sibling.

Joe proudly served in the Marine Corps and, after his honorable discharge, he returned to Pennsylvania where he began his distinguished career with the Department of Defense at the Ships Parts & Control Center. A pioneer in information technology, he led the efforts to automate manual naval systems. The culmination of his career was his appointment as Director for the Navy Fleet Material Support Office where he was recognized by President Ronald Reagan as the 1986 Federal Executive of the Year for Pennsylvania. His vast knowledge and expertise made him a regular presence on Capitol Hill in Washington DC, while his compassion and humor made him a beloved leader.

Joe was married to Sherry (Ofak) and resided in Steelton where they raised their three children: Jon, Kelly, and Craig. Their home was a place of joy and a refuge for many. As his children grew, Joe coached youth baseball for Tri-Community, football for the Steelton Midgets and girls’ basketball for Bishop Neuman School. After 30 years of marriage, Sherry preceded Joe in death. Joe was a loving and tireless caretaker for his son Jon who later passed on as well.

About 30 years ago, Joe married Catherine “Cass” (Smith) who survives him. With this marriage, Joe became the patriarch of a vast blended family. Joe’s role as a father, grandfather, and great grandfather brought him immense joy. His surviving children are now left to carry on his legacy. Kelly Sharp (Robert Rottet), Craig Sherrick (Adolfo Gonzalez), Deborah Smith, Joseph Smith, Andrew Smith (Jessica), and Janice Mullin (Ian) will live their lives forever remembering the lessons learned from this remarkable man.

Joe was known as Pap to his grandchildren. His presence and influence in his grandchildren’s lives was immeasurable. Pap’s role as father, grandfather, and great grandfather was one he cherished. He was Santa Claus, the Easter Bunny, and (his favorite) the Master Storyteller – his grandkids’ favorite comedian and confidant. His stories will echo in the hearts of his family and friends for generations. He could transition from discussing philosophical issues to laughing about bodily functions without missing a beat. His habit of popping out his false teeth upon demand for his grandkids would have them dissolving into giggles. He and Cass took each grandchild on a memorable vacation during their teenage years. Each grandchild also got a savings account upon high school graduation and care packages at college. They adored him endlessly. Joe’s surviving grandchildren are Torey, Jonathan, Brooke, Zachary, Colton, Rusty (Harley), Tyler (Natalie), Samantha, Niko (Melissa), Lucille (Shannon), Benjamin, and Adam. His grandson, Brant, preceded him in death.

Joe’s surviving great-grandchildren are Addy, Ellie, Josie, Noah, Gage, Jacob, Lillian, Carson, and Baker. Joe’s love extended beyond blood as he embraced Margaret Venetz (Shen) as a granddaughter and Chloe and Kevin as great grandchildren. His great grandson Jacob’s brother, Braxton, was also embraced as a member of this sprawling family. Joe also is survived by many loving nieces and nephews.

When the Philadelphia Eagles won the Super Bowl this past year, Joe celebrated with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren who had been indoctrinated as Eagles fans. His love of Penn State football was contagious as well. If you listen carefully when autumn breezes blow, you’ll hear our beloved Joe join in chorus with another Joe as they chant “We Are” from the heavens.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 AM on Friday, June 6, 2025 in St. Joseph Roman Catholic Church, 400 E Simpson Street, Mechanicsburg, PA, with Rev. Matthew Smith as Celebrant. Burial will follow at Resurrection Cemetery. A Visitation will be held in the church prior to Mass from 10:00 AM-11:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Joseph Sherrick to St. Joseph Catholic Church, 400 East Simpson Street, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055.