Obituaries » Joel DeMelfi
Joel DeMelfi
July 30, 1993 - February 8, 2022
Service Date: February 12, 2022
Joel DeMelfi 28 of Freeland was escorted to heaven on the wings of Saint Michael the Archangel, his favorite saint.
Born on July 30, 1993 he was the beloved son of Bernadette and Joseph DeMelfi, Freeland
He was a 2011 graduate of HAHS where he was proud to be a member of the Cougars football team.
He continued his education at the Jolie School of Barbering, winning numerous awards for his outstanding skill in this field
and was recruited by Mr. C’s immediately upon graduation.
He had a passion for writing short stories, especially science fiction, poetry, and rap lyrics.
A favorite pastime was 4 wheeling with his cousin and friends.
An avid collector, he loved seeking out trinkets and treasures at garage sales and thrift shops.
He was an accomplished equestrian winning many ribbons with his horse Dapper.
In his youth he studied Tai Chi. He also studied tap, jazz and modeling, and when kidded about it by his friends his reply was “Hey, that’s where all the cute girls are”.
He was a free spirit with a kind heart and gentle soul. He was the first one to help a friend never expecting anything in return.
His captivating smile always lit up a room. He had a quick wit sometimes with a slight touch of sarcasm.
He loved all animals, especially his constant companions, his dogs, Maverick and Goose who already feel his loss.
He is survived by loving aunts and uncles, Edward and Lee Banja, John and Dee Banja, Gloria and Matt Balas, and Michael and Beth Banja and numerous cousins whom he loved dearly.
He is predeceased by his Mom Mom and Pop, Edward and Eleanor Banja, grandparents, Jerry and Frances DeMelfi, and great grandparents, Dominic and Ella DeStefano.
Great Grandparents Michael and Anna Banja, Aunt and Uncle Arlene and Nicolas DeMelfi, and Aunt Lucille Gessner. Several great aunts, uncles, and cousins preceded him in death.
Services will be private by request of the family.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the animal shelter of your choice.
McNulty Funeral Home 494 East Butler Dr. Freeland
