Valencia Butcher and Beloved Family Man, Joseph R.Coleman, Dies at 62
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A pillar of the Valencia, Pennsylvania, community and a dedicated family man, Joseph R. Coleman passed away peacefully on November 20, 2025, at the age of 62. coleman, known for his infectious humor and generous spirit, leaves behind a legacy of hard work, devotion, and a zest for life.
A Life Rooted in Pittsburgh
Born on January 17, 1963, on Pittsburgh’s South Side, Coleman’s life was deeply intertwined wiht the city’s vibrant culture. He built a successful career as a butcher, a trade he pursued for over three decades. He first established his own butcher shop in Sharpsburg before ultimately retiring from Giant Eagle Market District.This dedication too his craft earned him a reputation for quality and service within the region.
Family and Legacy
Coleman is survived by his devoted wife, Lori (Switalski) Coleman. He was a proud father to Joseph K. Coleman (Jessica), Hannah Coleman, and is remembered fondly by those mourning the loss of his daughter, Jacqueline Coleman. He also leaves behind stepchildren troy O’Leary (Katie sinclair) and Brooke West (Russell), and also grandchildren taylor Weiss and Chole Coleman.
His extended family included his mother, Mary (Guzik), and numerous siblings-in-law: Brian Switalski (Debra), Susan Vincent (edward), and Eric Switalski. He was a beloved brother to Jan Ketter and a cherished uncle to Gillian Switalski, Kiersten Oliver Ketter (Austin), Dr. George Campbell, Jim Campbell, Noah vincent, Matthew Switalski, Sam Ketter (Maria), and great-nephews Branson Campbell and Malcolm Oliver.
Coleman’s companionship wasn’t limited to human family; his beloved dog, Teddie, provided him with immense comfort in recent years.
A Life Well-Lived
Beyond his professional life, Coleman embraced a full and active lifestyle.He enjoyed traveling, hunting, fishing, and singing along to a wide range of music, with a particular fondness for southern rock. Friends and family remember him as a natural salesman, always ready with a pitch or a deal.
He was known for his optimistic outlook, often quoting, “Its a small world, but I wouldn’t want to paint it,” and “Life is like a box of chocolates you never know what you are going to get.”
According to those who knew him, Coleman’s warmth, love of life, generosity, and especially his sense of humor will be deeply missed. “Joe is as free as a bird now,” a family member shared, “and his spirit will live on in our hearts.”
Services and Memorials
Friends and family gathered to celebrate Coleman’s life at Schellhaas Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Ltd.,in Bakerstown,with viewings held on Saturday,November 22nd,from 6-8 p.m., and Sunday, November 23rd, from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Monday, November 24th, at 10 a.m. in holy Sepulcher Catholic church, St. Mark Parish.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Coleman’s memory to Suncrest Hospice.Lori Coleman expressed her gratitude to the teams at LIFE Butler, Chicora QLS, Kadima/The Grove at Harmony, Suncrest Hospice, and the Alzheimer’s Association, as well as her family, friends, and coworkers for their unwavering support and care.
Condolences can be offered at www.schellhaasfh.com.
