Joseph L. Coccaro's Obituary
Joseph L. Coccaro, 90, of Lancaster, PA, formerly of West Mifflin, PA passed away on June 2, 2026.
Born in Braddock, Pennsylvania, to Anthony and Julia Coccaro, he was a graduate of Braddock High School, where he served as class president. He went on to serve his country in the United States Army Corps of Engineers with the 7th Army. Following his military service, he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Education from Waynesburg College.
He began his career as a teacher in Thomas Jefferson and West Mifflin Area School Districts and went on to serve as an elementary school principal in the West Mifflin Area School District. He also dedicated time as an evening administrator at Allegheny County Community College. After 36 years of service in education, he retired from his position and later relocated to Lancaster.
Joe cherished a lifelong love of reading and took great pride in educating others, often engaging in thoughtful discussions about current events and history. He proudly served in the Army during the Cold War and later would join his fellow veterans at VFW Post 914, and serve as the Post Adjutant for eight years. He deeply valued the camaraderie of fellow veterans and enjoyed gathering with the men at the VFW. As an Army veteran, he held a deep appreciation for military service and the values it represents, embodying a true sense of patriotism throughout his life. He was passionate about ensuring that others, especially students, developed a strong understanding and respect for our country and its history.
A dedicated catholic, Joseph belonged to the congregation at Holy Spirit Church (which would later become a part of Triumph of the Holy Cross Parish). He was a facilitator for the Holy Spirit Catholic Men's Fellowship Group. He found great meaning in his faith, and he loved partnering with his wife in church-related service to the community. He took joy in sporting events and, above all, in spending meaningful time with his children and grandchildren, who were the center of his world.
Joseph is survived by his loving spouse, Marina Coccaro (Giordano); children Carol Monyak (James Monyak), Cheri Kershen (Brian Kershen), Matthew Coccaro and Karen Lecorchick (Thomas Lecorchick) ; grandchildren Alexandra O'Brian (Conor O'Brian) , Aaron Lecorchick, Ryan Lecorchick; and sister Mary Giordano and brother-in-law Vincent Giordano.
Joseph is preceded in death by parents Anthony and Julia Coccaro.
Visitation will take place from 2-4 PM and 6-8 PM on Thursday June 11, 2026, all are welcome to attend. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 10:00 am on June 12, 2026 at Saint Elizabeth of Hungary Church (Triumph of The Holy Cross Parish) 1 Grove Pl, Pittsburgh, PA 15236.
In lieu of flowers, we respectfully ask that you make a memorial donation to the PSEA Education Foundation at:
https://www.psea.org/contact-us/work-for-psea/psea-foundation/ or donate to the PSEA Scholarship Fund, please mail a check made out to "Scholarship Trust" to:
PSEA Scholarship Trust
c/o PSEA Financial ManagementPO Box 1724, 400 North Third Street
Harrisburg, PA 17105-1724.
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