Joseph J. Duska, Jr.

Joseph John Duska Jr passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 8, 2025.

Joe was born in Erie, PA on March 16, 1935, the son of the late Joe and Harriet Duska.

He is predeceased by his son, Joey and brothers Richard and Bob.

Survivors include wife Bobie (68 years), son Kurt (Kelly) and grandchildren Nick, Jake, Eva and sister Luann.

Joe graduated from Tech Memorial High Schools and started an apprenticeship in tool & die at Kerner Tool & Die. Later the family moved to Girard, Pa when Joe and partners started Reddog Tool & Die and later Engineered Plastics. Joe brought many customers to the Erie area and helped spread the work around to other manufacturers, when you see a Little Tikes semi driving through the area think of him

Joe was active in the community as mayor of Girard and member of the Girard Exchange Club. He was a proud member of the Saints and Sinners club where he would dress up as Barney for the children’s Christmas party.

Joe loved Lake Erie where he boated/ jet skied for decades and his hunting camp in Union City. He always had a smile and insisted on paying the bar tab, don’t even try. He lived an outgoing life with fond memories of D-dock, the Reddog family, Mannechoir Club and seemed to know everyone in town.

Joe was blessed with Bobie who spoiled him for 68 years with incredible meals and being his fashion coordinator. He would have worn stripes and plaids. She was there every day from the beginning to the end, a testimony of love and commitment.

Poppop loved many things in life, but nothing brought him more joy and purpose than his three grandchildren, whose love transformed his world and gave new meaning to his life every day. He would pick up items at garage sales and take them apart with the grandkids. He taught them how to run a mill/lathe, mitre a corner and how to work. He went to every game, event and was the loudest/proudest in the crowd.

He had no regrets, lived a full life and left a legacy.

A Celebration of a well lived life will be scheduled in the near future.

Arrangements were handled by the Burton Quinn Scott Cremation and Funeral Services, Inc. West Ridge, 3801 W. 26th Street, Erie, PA 16506

Send condolences at www.BurtonQuinnScott.com