Joseph Thomas Hrivnak, 81, of Natrona Heights, PA, passed away Monday, November 23, 2015 at Allegheny Valley Hospital, Natrona Heights, after a short illness. 

Joseph was born Friday, August 10, 1934 in Pittsburgh, PA to the late Joseph and Pauline (Rzeszotarski) Hrivnak.  He graduated from Tarentum High School in 1952 and from Indiana University of Pennsylvania in 1957 while also receiving his commission as Lieutenant in the US Army.  In 1960 he became Captain of the US Army Research and Engineering Command.  In 1967 Joe received his Master’s Degree in Climatology and then in 1970 his Doctorate in Education, both from the University of Pittsburgh.  Joe worked as a graduate teaching assistant at the University of Pittsburgh; a consultant at the National Teacher Corps; a teacher, guidance counselor, and director of pupil personnel services in the Highlands School District; and a guidance counselor at Westmoreland Community College.  Joe was a Sunday school superintendent, a Sunday school teacher and a church council member for many years in the Lutheran Church, and volunteered at Peoples Library.   He was an avid reader with vast interests, especially the study of climatology, and was known to give reports on the weather and world climatology to anyone who would listen.

Joe was a wonderful husband of 53 years to Marlene (Mainor); a loving father to David and daughter-in-law Kimberly; and a teacher, counselor, and friend to many students over the years – always willing to help any young person with college and career choices.  He was loved by many and will be greatly missed by all. 

Friends will be welcomed by the family at the ROBERT PETERS FUNERAL HOME INC., 1521 Freeport Road, Natrona Heights, PA 15065 (724-224-7730) from 2 until 4 PM with services immediately following on Friday, November 27^th.  Burial services at the Mount Airy Cemetery will be private.  Officiating will be the Rev. James Young.  For online condolences please visit us at www.petersfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

Those wishing may make memorial contributions to:  The Peoples Library, 880 Barnes Street, New Kensington, PA 15068.

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