Joseph “Joe” M. Vavro Jr.

It is with deep sadness that the family of Joseph “Joe” M. Vavro Jr., 77, of Butler announces his untimely death Saturday and the journey back to his heavenly Father.

Joe was born July 6, 1939, in Butler, the son of the late Joseph Martin Vavro Sr. and Mary Perri Vavro.

He served in the U.S. Army, where he was in the field artillery. Joe's first job was with Craftsmen-Ziegler Printing in Butler. His next career was as a general foreman in the melt shop at ARMCO Steel Mill and later as one of the coordinators of the Quality Plus Process. Joe retired from ARMCO in 1997 after 31 years of continuous service. His next adventure was as an entrepreneur and co-founder of Office Link in downtown Butler from 1995 to 1998. Next, Joe utilized his ARMCO experience and management knowledge as a founding partner in the Development Group, which was a nationwide human resource consulting service from 2000 to 2015.

One of Joe's passions was as a volunteer fireman for the Mercer Road Volunteer Fire Department where he served as a captain for two years. He also was a member of the High Gain Investment Club along with membership on the Community Action Board, where, for a time, he served as president. Joe also was a member of the Butler Township Handicapped Accessory Board. As a member of this board he helped design access to buildings for the physically challenged. His hobbies included target shooting and enjoying a glass of good Cabernet Sauvignon.

Joe was a devoted and loving husband and father. He will be truly missed and is survived by his wife of 56 years, Nancy A. Natili Vavro; his son, Daniel J. Vavro; and one brother, Alvin P. Vavro, all of Butler; and his nephew, Zachary P. Vavro and his wife, Jessica, of Pittsburgh.

In addition to his immediate family, his wife's brothers and their families, who spent countless hours together during holidays and special occasions, will always cherish the laughter and lively discussions they shared with Joe.

Caring for and being with his family gave Joe his greatest joy. He was known to his family and friends as an unselfish and giving person who would always help anyone in need. When confronted with the many challenges of life, Joe always said, “You gotta do what you gotta do!”

We are confident that when God welcomes Joe into his heavenly kingdom, he will say, “Welcome home my Good and Faithful Servant! Your earthly duties are complete! You are with me now always in Paradise!”

VAVRO — Friends of Joseph “Joe” M. Vavro Jr., who died Saturday, Oct. 1, 2016, will be received from 3 to 7 p.m. Tuesday at the Thompson-Miller Funeral Home, 124 E. North St., Butler. Additional visitation will be from 9 to 10 a.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.A Mass of Christian burial will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday at St. Andrew Roman Catholic Church, 1660 N. Main St. Extension, Butler, with the Rev. Nicholas J. Argentieri of St. Andrew Roman Catholic Church officiating.The family requests donations to the Salvation Army, 313 W. Cunningham St., Butler, PA 16001, or Lifesteps Inc., 383 New Castle Road, Butler, PA 16001.Online condolences can be given at www.thompson-miller.com.