Josepha Izak

Josepha (Jo) Izak, a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully with family at home on November 24, 2023. Born on March 16, 1926, in Baden, Pennsylvania, she lived a life filled with love, determination, and unwavering faith.

From an early age, Jo exhibited a competitive spirit and a thirst for knowledge. She excelled in her studies at Ambridge High School, graduating in 1944. Despite the challenges posed by World War II and limited opportunities for higher education at the time, she never let go of her desire to learn and grow. In pursuit of her dreams, Jo embarked on a career journey that would shape her life in profound ways. She started working as a bank teller and found joy in modeling at the local department stores near Pittsburgh. Jo's strong work ethic served as an inspiration to those around her.

However successful she was professionally, Jo's proudest accomplishments lay within her role as a devoted wife to her beloved husband Bob. Their love story was nothing short of extraordinary—a testament to their shared values and deep faith. Together they weathered life's storms with grace and unwavering commitment to one another. As a mother to two children, Michael Joseph Izak and Rebecca Izak, Jo poured her heart into raising them with love and care. She selflessly supported Bob in his demanding job that required frequent travel while ensuring that their home remained a sanctuary of warmth and comfort.

When the time was right, Jo returned to work at the bank as her children grew older. She attempted to complete her college degree at PITT for the last time, but had to relocate due to Bob's job demands. Her determination to further her education was admirable and reflective of her lifelong pursuit of knowledge.

Throughout her life, Jo's creativity and problem-solving skills were always on full display. There was no project or fix around the house that she couldn't undertake. Her handiwork can still be seen today—an enduring testament to her resourcefulness and dedication to her family.

An avid golfer, Jo discovered a passion for the sport when she and Bob relocated near Annapolis, Maryland, in 1976. This love for golf continued when they finally settled in their dream retirement location of Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, in 1984. Jo actively participated in women's golf league leadership and even achieved the remarkable feat of scoring three holes-in-one. Golf became an outlet for her competitive nature and a source of joy throughout her life.

While the loss of Jo weighs heavy on the hearts of her family, they find solace in knowing that she has been reunited with her beloved husband, Bob. Both shared a deep faith in God and a profound appreciation for life's blessings. Their commitment serves as an inspiration to all who knew them. Jo is predeceased by her sister Elene Mennell, and her brothers, Edward, William and Rudolph Hrvoich. Jo leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and unwavering faith. She will be dearly missed by her surviving family members: her son Michael Joseph Izak, her daughter Rebecca Izak, her granddaughter Kathleen Izak, grandson Michael Robert Izak, and great-grandson Michael Alexander Izak.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, December 27, at 11:00 a.m. in Quinn-Shalz Family Funeral Home located at 3600 Third Street South in Jacksonville Beach, Florida. Please join us as friends and family gather to honor and remember the beautiful life she lived.