Joseph Thomas Valatka, 42, of Florence, New Jersey, passed away suddenly on March 9, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born in Point Pleasant, New Jersey, Joseph grew up with a deep sense of compassion and a natural desire to help others. Having experienced the need for extra support himself at times, he developed a profound empathy for others facing similar challenges. This understanding led him to become a proud participant in the North Carolina Special Olympics, where he passionately played bocce, volleyball, and soccer. He found great joy, friendship, and accomplishment on his various teams. His experiences there were deeply meaningful to him and helped shape his lifelong appreciation for inclusion, kindness, perseverance, and community.

Joseph’s dedication to serving others also led him to North Carolina, where he proudly served as a firefighter before eventually returning home to New Jersey. His commitment to helping people never wavered. Back home, he generously gave his time and energy as a devoted volunteer at the Trenton Area Soup Kitchen (TASK), and additionally volunteered at the Soup Festival event in Peddler’s Village. He was always ready to lend a hand to anyone in need.

Outside of his volunteer work, Joseph’s greatest joy came from spending time with his family and making people smile. Known affectionately as the “King of Holiday Decorations,” Joseph took great pride in transforming his home for Halloween and Christmas. The festive displays he created were a true team effort shared with his Uncle Timothy and Aunt Michele, and together they brought joy and holiday spirit to everyone who passed by. At family gatherings and cookouts, Joseph was the go-to Grill Master, happily cooking for everyone and making sure no one left without a full plate and a smile.

Joseph had a generous spirit, a warm heart, and a gift for bringing people together. His kindness, laughter, smile, and unwavering willingness to help others will be remembered by all who knew him.

Joseph is survived by his mother, Theresa Valatka; his beloved fiancée, Stacy Collins; and many loving aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him and the many lives he touched.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 12:00 pm on Thursday, March 19, at St. Michael’s Church, 1130 Brunswick Ave, Trenton, NJ. Interment will be private and at the convenience of the family.

Memorial contributions in Joseph’s name may be made to: The American Cancer Society, PO Box 6704 Hagerstown, MD 21741 or to the Special Olympics, 2600 Virginia Ave NW, 11th Floor, Washington, DC 20037.

Arrangements are under the direction of Peppler Funeral Home, Bordentown, NJ.