Joseph F. Durkin

In loving memory, we honor the lifetime journey of Joseph Francis Thomas Durkin, which came to rest on August 11, 2025 while surrounded by his loving family in his home. Although he resided in Hamlin, he was born in the Bronx (a well kept secret, he always said). He was the son of the late Eugene J. and Mary W. McKeon Durkin.

Joseph was a man of many talents and hobbies. He loved to shoot pool and won several trophies while serving as captain of multiple pool league teams over the years. He took pride in teaching anyone who was willing to learn and would always offer tips on how to make the best shot, even to his competitors. Joseph was also a self-taught guitar player, amazing singer, and beautiful song writer. He enjoyed having jam sessions with his friend Mark Shaffer, who plays the drums. Earlier in Joe's life, he was also a freestyle ski instructor and played softball for many years.

Joe's greatest passions were muscle cars and motorcycles. He was one of the founding members of the Hamlin Hawgs alongside his brother-in-law Andy. Joe's wheelies up 590 will never be forgotten as he was dubbed by many as 'The Wheelie King of Hamlin'. He was fearless, loved going fast, and would never turn down a drag race. Joe was a very skilled body man and a talented painter, particularly with his famous flames. He enjoyed his weekend bike rides with Lisa, with or without their friends, for they never knew where it would take them.

Joe loved spending time with his children, especially playing Yahtzee or cooking a delicious dinner for them. He was always chasing a good time and the elusive "big bag of money." Joe had a huge heart, contagious laugh, strength that was unmatched, and too many wild stories to count. He made friends everywhere he went and will be missed by many. His smile, protective nature, and vivacious personality will never be forgotten. He was a medical miracle that overcame a heart condition, motorcycle accidents and beat the odds many, many times. He always lived life to the fullest. Let the legend live in the hearts of everyone forever.

Joe is survived by his devoted fiancé Lisa of Moscow; his children Nicholas Griffin of Lake Ariel, Billie Jean Durkin and partner Chandler Todd of Carolina Beach, NC, Eugene James Durkin of Hamlin, and Travis Durkin of Hamlin; granddaughters Avery Griffin and Tatum Todd; his Aunt Margie Williams and her husband Rich of Sterling; sisters Mary Ellen Boandl of Hamlin, Vivian Heflin and her husband Daniel of Maplewood, and Gloria Durkin of Maplewood; brothers Michael Durkin and his wife Debbie of Lake Ariel, and Steven Durkin and his wife Karen of Pottsville; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his nephew Michael Durkin Jr. and brother-in-law Andy Boandl.

Please join the family on Friday, August 29th at 6:30PM to share memories of Joseph and honor a life well lived. His Celebration of Life will be held at R Place on 590, 482 Hamlin Hwy, Route 590, Hamlin, Pa.

Arrangements have been entrusted to and are under the care and direction of James Wilson Funeral Home, Lake Ariel.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Joe's memory may be made to: Shriners Hospitals for Children by visiting online at https://www.shrinerschildrens.org/en or by mail at Shriners Children's c/o Office of Philanthropy 2900 N. Rocky Point Drive  Tampa, FL 33607  Please include Philadelphia Hospital in the memo line.