06/09/2026
Cross/Reposted: We are deeply saddened to announce that Joseph L: We are deeply saddened to announce that Joseph L. Wroblewski, 96, Past International President of Lions Clubs International, devoted husband, father, grandfather, funeral director, veteran, humanitarian and community leader, passed away peacefully at home on June 2, 2026, surrounded by his children.
For more than seven decades, Joseph dedicated his life to service – service to his family, his community, his profession and most notably to Lions Clubs International, whose mission of improving lives through humanitarian work became the guiding purpose of his life.
Born in Ashley, Pennsylvania, to Joseph L. Wroblewski and Irene Sobolewski Wroblewski, Joe was raised with the values of faith, hard work, compassion and integrity that would define his character throughout his life. A graduate of Ashley High School, he continued his education at Wilkes College and later earned a degree from Eckels College of Mortuary Science in 1952.
Joe honorably served in the United States Army during the Korean War. Upon returning home, he established his first funeral home in Ashley in 1954 and later expanded his work by acquiring the former John J. Baloga Funeral Home in Forty Fort. Together with his beloved wife, Normajean, he served generations of families with dignity, compassion and professionalism for more than six decades. During life’s most difficult moments, Joe and Normajean became trusted sources of comfort, guidance, and reassurance for countless families throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania.
His entrepreneurial spirit led him to several successful ventures beyond funeral service. Though respected as a businessman, Joe believed that the true measure of a life was found in service to others.
A member of the Ashley Lions Club since 1954, Joe devoted more than 70 years to Lions Clubs International. Through decades of leadership and service, he rose through the organization’s ranks, serving as district governor, international director, and ultimately as international president of Lions Clubs International during 1985-1986.
His work carried him across continents, where he forged lifelong friendships, inspired service and advanced humanitarian causes that improved countless lives.
Throughout the world, Lions knew Joe not only as a leader but also as a trusted friend whose warmth, optimism and genuine interest in others left lasting impressions wherever he traveled. He embodied the Lions motto, “We Serve,” and the principle of “Service Above Self.” As international president, he adopted the theme “We Serve Better Together,” a simple but powerful message that reflected both his vision for Lions and his philosophy of life. He believed that the greatest accomplishments were never achieved alone, but through people working side by side in common purpose. His commitment to combating blindness, alleviating hunger, supporting youth, strengthening communities and promoting international understanding left an enduring mark on the organization and on the people it serves.
Above all, Joe cherished his family. He shared nearly 70 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Normajean G. Kozicki Wroblewski, whose partnership, love and support were central to his life until her passing in 2023. Together, they built a life rooted in faith, family, service and devotion to others.
While thousands around the world knew him as a leader, mentor, humanitarian and friend, his grandchildren knew him simply as “Papa” – a title he treasured above all others. Whether sharing stories, offering encouragement, celebrating milestones or simply enjoying time together, he took immense pride in his family and found great joy in watching each new generation grow. His wisdom, generosity, gentle spirit and unwavering love became gifts that his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren will carry with them always.
Through his family, his profession, his faith and his lifelong dedication to humanitarian service, Joe leaves a legacy that spans generations and reaches far beyond the communities he called home.
Joe’s life was marked by kindness, purpose, generosity and an abiding belief that each of us has a responsibility to help others. Though he will be deeply missed by those who loved him, his example will continue to inspire all who knew him.
Wherever people gather to help others, strengthen their communities and make the world a better place, Joe's legacy lives on. His family finds comfort in knowing that the words he chose to guide his life, and which will forever mark his resting place, continue to speak for him: We Serve Better Together.
Please remember the family with your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
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