Joseph “Uncle Joe” Buchma, 100 years old, died at his home, early, Saturday morning. Born in Scranton, on November 26, 1919, he was the son of the late John and Parania Buchma. He lived a long and wonderful life. He had a multitude of good friends. Joe traveled to the Ukraine many times and spent a lot of time corresponding and assembling care packages. His hope was that through providing items that others take for granted he could help better the lives of friends, family and even strangers in the Ukraine. Joe’s Ukrainian heritage was of profound importance to him. Joe lived most of his adult life in New York City where he was a designer and craftsman of fine jewelry. Some of his most exquisite signature pieces were sold by Tiffany & Co. He took enjoyment in fabricating new tools to help his assembly. His trade turned hobby in later years when he designed and crafted beaded jewelry, and he loved giving away his art. He moved back to Scranton in 1984 and was a devoted member of St Michael’s Ukrainian Orthodox Church. He was a United States Navy veteran of WW II, serving in the Pacific Theatre, and was awarded the Pacific Theatre and Philippine Liberation Medal with 1 star. He is survived by his brother Andy, sisters’ in-law, Cecy (Williams), Stephie (Zaloga), and many loving nieces and nephews. Joe was also predeceased by four sisters; Helen DelloJoio, Anne Battle, Kate Brega and Alice Arlauskas and two brothers; Paul and John Buchma. Joe enjoyed dancing the polka, playing the fiddle and capturing good times through his photography. Family came first to Uncle Joe. There was seldom a party he missed. Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, September 12 at St. Michael’s Ukrainian Orthodox Church, at 10 am Celebrated by the Rev. Philip Harendza, Pastor. Interment with Military Honors will follow in the parish cemetery. In lieu of flowers, Memorials in Joe’s name, can be made to; Meals on Wheels of NEPA, 541 Wyoming Ave., Scranton, PA 18509. Funeral arrangements were entrusted to the direction and care of the Edward J. Chomko Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 262 Railroad Avenue, West Scranton
