Joseph J. McGoldrick, mortician

Joseph J. McGoldrick, 89, a Jenkintown funeral director for many years, died Saturday, June 29, of heart failure at his residence.

He was owner-operator of the Joseph J. McGoldrick Funeral Home, founded by his father, also Joseph J., in 1900. The home was always on or near West Avenue.

Born and raised in Jenkintown, he graduated from Immaculate Conception School in 1938 and North Catholic High School in 1942.

Tall, tough, lanky, and lefthanded, he was an outstanding pitcher on his high school varsity baseball team.

He served in the Army Air Forces during World War II and was honorably discharged on Christmas 1945.

In 1947, Mr. McGoldrick graduated from Eckels Mortuary School in Philadelphia. He took over the family business in 1959 after the death of his sister, Anne. She had assumed leadership in 1933 when their father died young. Between 1947 and 1959, Mr. McGoldrick learned the trade.

His son Thomas said his father was "a true gentleman" and a typical member of "the greatest generation" - he never mentioned his accomplishments.

Mr. McGoldrick was devoted to family, proud of his profession, and believed in the Golden Rule.

"He was a fine example of how to handle yourself and treat other people," his son said. Thomas McGoldrick plans to carry on the family business.

He was a longtime member of the Jenkintown Lions Club, fourth-degree knight of the James A. Flaherty Council, Knights of Columbus, and member of both the Pennsylvania and National Funeral Directors Associations.

Mr. McGoldrick was a Phillies fan and loved baseball. Friends could attest to his "nasty curve ball," evidenced in league play.

In 1956, Mr. McGoldrick was a pallbearer for Connie Mack. "He was thrilled; it was an honor," his son said.

He was married to the former Delores E. Seket. She died in 2008, a month before their 60th wedding anniversary.

Surviving, in addition to his son, are sons Joseph, Robert, William, and James; daughters Anne Marie Lawrence and Kathleen Spencer; 15 grandchildren; and 27 great-grandchildren.

Viewings will be from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, July 5, and 8:30 to 10 a.m. Saturday, July 6, at the Joseph J. McGoldrick Funeral Home, 507 West Ave., Jenkintown. A Funeral Mass will be said at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, July 6, at Immaculate Conception Roman Catholic Church, 602 West Ave., Jenkintown. Interment will be in Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Cheltenham.

Donations may be made to St. Joseph Villa, 110 W. Wissahickon Ave., Flourtown, Pa. 19031.