Obituary of Joseph Frank Ali

Joseph Frank Ali of Pittsburgh, PA passed away peacefully on June 16th at the age of 95, surrounded by his three daughters. Joe was born on January 18th, 1928 in Bridgeville to Dominick and Josephine (Noni) Ali. He attended Bridgeville High School before enlisting in the US Navy at age 17. Joe served as Seaman 1st Class, earning an American Campaign Medal as well as a Victory Medal, before being honorably discharged in 1947. Joe married Joan Holzapfel on August 19, 1950. They settled in Bridgeville, close to many other family members, and had three daughters. Joe was General Manager of US Concrete Pipe Company and was also a partner in the family trucking business, D. Ali Trucking. Outside of work, Joe’s passions included golf, music, socializing with friends and family, and he loved good food. He was also a very good and competitive card player. Many fond family memories were made during summers at Deep Creek Lake, boating, swimming, and having summer fun at the lake. Joe also served for many years as a volunteer Fireman for the Bridgeville Fire Department. Joe, or “Pappy” as his family knew him, relocated to Florida with Joan in 1994 to escape the Pennsylvania winters. They initially settled in Punta Gorda, but eventually moved to Bonita Springs to be closer to two of his daughters and grandchildren. In retirement, he spent many years as a golf course ranger, enjoying the camaraderie and being outdoors, as well as easy access to golf. He also enjoyed entertaining, competitive card games of gin or Morra, and taking vacation cruises with Joan. Joe cherished spending time with her, going out for lunch or dinner, as well as dancing together to any Sinatra tune. Joe had a quick wit and great sense of humor. He loved the big family gatherings at the holidays, surrounded by his children, grandchildren, and friends, and was always quick to play a joke, tell a great story and have a good laugh. We will miss him greatly. Joe was totally devoted to his late wife Joan, who preceded him in death in December 2022, as did his parents, and brothers Lou and Jim. He is survived by his daughters and sons-in-law Laura and Mike Gibbons, Jackie and Don Story, and Debi and Bill Roth; his grandchildren Isaac, Alia and Elliott Roth and Joey Story; step-grandchildren Saranac Harris and Gretchen Pangilinan and their families. Family and friends received on Wednesday, June 28, 2023 from 3-7 PM at the Warchol Funeral Home, Inc., Bridgeville (412.221.3333), where a Blessing Service will be held on Thursday, June 29th at 11 AM. Interment and full military honors to follow at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Bridgeville Volunteer Fire Department.