Joseph M. Ferno

In Loving Memory of Joseph M. Ferno

Joe, aka “Pepper,” a beloved husband, father, friend, and sports enthusiast, passed away peacefully in his sleep at the age of 76. He is survived by his wife, Kathleen Ferno, daughter, Kiersten Ferno, son-in-law, Jean Paty, and sisters Kathleen Kilgallon and Colleen Riker. Joseph leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories.

Born with an adventurous spirit on July 12th, 1947, Joe had a passion for family, friends, and the finer things in life. From the roaring engines of vintage cars to the thrill of water sports to watching his beloved Pittsburgh sports teams play, his enthusiasm for spending time doing things he loved with those he loved was unending.

Known for his generosity and caring nature, Joe touched the lives of many with his acts of kindness. Whether through his accounting business, McCardle & Company, aiding a friend or family member in need, or supporting causes like Habitat for Humanity, St. Jude Children’s Research Institute, Wounded Warrior Project, or Smile Train, Joseph’s love for people knew no bounds.

Sports held a special place in his heart. From the intensity of Steelers, Pitt and PSU football, to the grace of Pens hockey and fast pace of Pitt basketball, Joe cheered passionately for his favorite teams, his enthusiasm contagious to all who knew him.

With a twinkle in his eye and a quick wit, Joe was the master of dad jokes, bringing laughter to any occasion and a charisma that captivated all he encountered. For over 40 years he and the love of his life, Kathleen, danced, sang, and celebrated life’s big moments without fail, their unbreakable bond seeing them through both joyful and challenging times. Moments laughing on the golf course with his daughter, Kiersten, and advising on her shoe store business brought him great joy. Enjoying boating and a bourbon with his buddy and son-in-law, Jean, were among his favorite past times. Joseph always put the needs of his family above his own, he was the true embodiment of a selfless, devoted husband, father, son, and brother.

Joe was a man of many talents. A handyman extraordinaire, he fixed anything broken with one of countless golf tees kept nearby, and was a brilliant visionary when it came to advising clients on business or creative work like designing the family home. He entertained friends and family with rock-and-roll singalongs and endless tales of his travels and adventures. Beyond the fun, he was relied upon by many to bring a thoughtful, level-headed approach to both life and work.

Through life’s ups and downs, his faith in God never faltered.

Though he may no longer walk among us, Joseph's spirit and stories will live on in the fond memories of those who were fortunate enough to know him. May his legacy of love and laughter continue to inspire us all.

Family and friends will be received on Monday, February 26, 2024 from 9:30-10:50 AM at English Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., 378 Maryland Ave., Oakmont, PA 15139, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 AM in Holy Family Parish St. Irenaeus Church, 387 Maryland Ave., Oakmont, PA 15139.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh.

Forever in our hearts, Joseph will be dearly missed and never forgotten.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Joseph M. Ferno, please visit our floral store.