CURRENT CELEBRATIONS

Joseph Cranmer

Everybody knew what came first for Joe: he was a family man through and through. He instilled his values in his kids and set expectations high. They knew he’d be by their side every step of the way. He never missed an event and coached them in many sports. Of course, he loved all the kids just as much as his own: wins and losses were never as important as every kid playing. And as a grandfather he was just as committed; it didn’t matter how far away the event was, you could count on Joe to be there. Joe looked forward to the days he could babysit his eight grandchildren. He was happy to change diapers when they were young, sneak them all the treats they wanted, or load them up with toys from the flea market, “free market” as they knew it. Often, they wouldn’t want to leave and go home because they had such a good time with “Pop”. He was active in his community as well: an usher at Jesus the Good Shepherd, catcher for the local Men’s Senior Baseball league, and previous Commander at the American Legion Post 146. After joining VFW Post 3020, Joe served in many roles including Vice Commander, Honor Guard and Deputy Vice Commander. He was honored as Parade Marshall at the Riverside Memorial Day Parade in 2022. His real colors shone through in his professional life: he was a proud independent business owner of Sunset Hairstyling, easily located by the traditional barber pole spinning out front. Joe’s barber shop harkened back to a simpler time. A nostalgic place where locals could kick back and discuss a little sports and a little politics, get a hot towel and straight razor shave and look and feel great on the way out the door. If his T.V was on he’d most likely be cheering for the Phils, the Eagles and the Sixers. Joe was a patriot and served our nation in the Army from 1963-1967.

He’d meet a pretty girl named Judy on a blind date. Their marriage of 53 years was full of family trips to the Poconos, day trips to the shore with a stop to enjoy pepper-and-egg sandwiches and road trips in the big blue family van with the Philadelphia sports radio blaring. If there was music playing, you could find Joe and Judy on the dance floor celebrating with close friends. Joe and Judy are blessed with three children: Tanya Cranmer (John Orr), Tammy Cordwell (Barry) and Joseph (Amanda); and later by grandchildren, Nicholas, Nathan, Brendan, Kaylee, Joshua, Jon Michael, Justin and Jordan. He is survived by his sisters, Frances Beideman and Ruth Cranmer.

Come celebrate 78 great years Thursday 6-8 p.m. and Friday 9-10 a.m. at Sweeney Funeral Home, Riverside. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday 10:30 a.m. at Jesus the Good Shepherd Parish, St. Joseph Church, Beverly. Interment St. Peter Cemetery, Riverside.