Joseph Ponko

Joseph Patrick Ponko, 71, of Scottdale, passed away unexpectedly, Sunday, May 9, 2010 at his residence. He was born November 27, 1938 in Mt. Pleasant a son of the late Joseph M. and Sophie Lesniak Ponko. Joe had formerly served the Borough of Scottdale as a police officer and until his death was employed the Pa. State Police as a Liquor Control Enforcement officer. He was a member of the Fraternal Order of Police and belonged to the Blue and Gray Brigade of the Civil War and Living History Reenactment. In addition, he served in the US Marine Corps Reserves. Joe is survived by his wife and best friend of 45 years, Nancy (Bodenheimer) Ponko; two sons, Joseph Duane Ponko and Keven Patrick Ponko; a special friend and nephew, Thomas M. Craig, Jr and family of Gautier, MS; and his devoted feline friend, Abby; he is also survived by a brother, Duane M. Ponko. Family and friends will be received at GRAFT-JACQUILLARD FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC. 303 Pittsburgh St. Scottdale (724-887-7110) on Wednesday from 2-4 & 6-8 pm where funeral services will be held at 8 pm with Mr. Donald Rauscher. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Westmoreland Humane Society, PO Box 1552, Greensburg, PA 15601 in memory of J.P. Ponko and Victor.

---