Michael Joseph

Michael “Mike” Joseph

December 27, 1971 – July 20, 2025

Michael “Mike” Joseph, lovingly known as “Uncle Mike,” passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, July 20, 2025, in Orlando, Florida, at the age of 53.

Born on December 27, 1971, in Upland, Pennsylvania, Mike was a lifelong Delco native who grew up in Swarthmore and attended Notre Dame de Lourdes Catholic School before graduating from Ridley High School in 1989. In 2024, he relocated to Orlando, Florida, after several years living in Woodlyn, PA, with the family who became his own.

A skilled and meticulous professional painter, Mike was known not just for the quality of his work but for the pride he took in doing every job right. Whether during his many years at Wellington at Hershey’s Mill or more recently with Skolfield Homes, Mike was often the “go-to guy”—a reflection of his work ethic, reliability, and dedication to his craft.

Mike had a deep passion for fishing that went far beyond a hobby—it was his daily ritual, his peace, and his joy. From dawn outings to post-work casts, and even a treasured annual “Christmas Fish” tradition, he found serenity and excitement on the water. He shared this love of fishing—and many quiet hours by the shore—with his best friend.

A proud Philadelphia sports fan, Mike bled green for the Eagles and cheered fiercely for the Phillies, Sixers, and Flyers (in that order). He loved talking sports, playing fantasy football (baseball and basketball), and celebrating every victory like it was personal. He also had a serious appreciation for good food and spent many hours bonding over favorite meals, recipes, and shared plates—except, of course, when it came to the ongoing country music debate.

In earlier years, Mike played darts for Dave’s Tavern and was a regular in a local pool league, where his competitive spirit and quick wit made him a favorite teammate.

He was also a devoted dog lover, having had several dogs throughout his life who brought him joy, companionship, and unconditional love. Animals always seemed to know they could trust him—and they were right.

More than anything, Mike was Uncle Mike. He was the kind of uncle every kid should have—playful, dependable, and always up for a laugh. He was a constant presence in the lives of Maeve and Anna, who adored him. Whether swimming, coloring with Anna, getting roped into Roblox, trading jokes and jump scares with Maeve, or just being there, he gave them his whole heart—and they gave theirs right back. In the truest sense of the word, Mike was family.

He is survived by his mother, Pauline Joseph (nee Frost), and by his chosen family: Kevin, Jackie, Maeve, and Anna MacDonald, who shared their home and hearts with him. He is also remembered by many dear friends—too many to name, but all part of the circle of loyalty and laughter that surrounded him.

Mike was funny, fiercely loyal, a good-natured instigator, and always someone you could count on. He loved hard, lived simply, and made every day a little brighter for the people lucky enough to know him.

While no public service is planned, a private gathering will be held in Florida. The family deeply appreciates the understanding and support from all who knew and cared for Mike.

Mike has gone fishing—and he’ll be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.