Joseph F. Choma, veteran, retired firefighter

Joseph F. Choma, 86, of Lewes, passed away peacefully with family at his side Thursday, April 20, 2023.

Joe was born in Wilmington to the late Joseph and Agnes Choma. After graduating from Wilmington High School in 1954, he served four years in the U.S. Air Force stationed in Alaska and Japan.

He was a Wilmington firefighter for 30 years and retired in 1991. He then worked at St. Francis Hospital in facility maintenance until his retirement in 2004.  At one time, he owned his own painting company.

He and his beloved wife, Edith, retired and relocated to Lewes.

Joe enjoyed horseracing at Delaware Park, crabbing, fishing, and spending time with his family and grandchildren. Affectionately called PopPop, he liked cooking for the family and was known for his delicious pancakes. He enjoyed watching wildlife, especially birds, going out for ice cream, playing games, and the lottery.

He was an expert at building things with his hands. He loved God and his country. He liked to joke around and play pranks.

He is preceded in death by his brother Francis; and his sister Agnes. Joe is survived by his wife of 64 years, Edith (McLennan) Choma; his daughter, Michele Wolfe (Joe); his son, Joseph (Lynn); his son, Scott (Desiree); his sister, Mary Champlin; brother, Walter Choma; and eight wonderful grandchildren.

Family and friends are invited to attend a service at 1 p.m., Monday, May 22, at Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Bear.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, stjude.org.

Online condolences may be made by visiting melsonfuneralservices.com.