Joseph J. Koplinka Jr.

Joseph John Koplinka Jr., 41, of Pittsburgh, passed away on Friday, March 26, 2021, in UPMC Passavant – McCandless from a heart attack.

Joseph was born on October 9, 1979, in Smithtown, New York, a son of Joseph J. and Linda (Ruoff) Koplinka Sr., of Long Island. He is survived by his sister Kathryn, partner Erin, beautiful baby boy, Aiden Joseph and too many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends to count. Despite being a Pennsylvania resident, he spent 35 years as a New Yorker.

Joseph was a caring, intelligent, and loving person that had a childhood filled with nights on the baseball field, weekends in boy scout outings, evenings in catechism classes, and holidays shared with a huge, warm family. Birthdays were always celebrated, milestones always cheered for and losses always turned into lessons. Joe had a deep passion for the arts. He loved creating; whether it was poetry, cartoon drawings, or later in his life crafting very biblical artistry that was outstanding. He also loved working on cars; anyone that knew him would call him first when they needed help or had questions.

Joseph was a talented 4th generation upholsterer and carpenter having learned the trade from his father. Joe could revive any piece of wood and make it look new. Joe had an innate connection to animals and no matter how many legs an animal, insect or furry friend had; Joe loved it and it loved Joe. He maintained long friendships in his life and met his partner Erin 5 years ago. Together they had a beautiful baby boy, Aiden Joseph in November 2020. Joe was LOVED. His spirit, life and love will live on, and his memory will never be forgotten. He will rest in heaven with the Lord and watch over his family and friends until they reunite.


All arrangements are private and entrusted to Thomas-Little Funeral Service, Inc., and Crematory, 305 Main Street, Imperial (724-695-2800).