Joseph W. Gerstenschlager

Joseph W. Gerstenschlager, 61, of Glen Park, New York, passed peacefully at his home on Monday March 31, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Joe’s life was a testament to the power of his love for his family and his unwavering work ethic. His infectious laugh and silly joking ways brought smiles and lighter hearts to many.

Joe was born on April 1, 1963, in Watertown, New York, the son of Harry W. and Elizabeth J. (Altmire) Gerstenschlager. He attended Watertown High School and began working in construction alongside his father at a very young age. In 1991, he established his own contracting and landscaping business which he continued to operate alongside his wife and children until his passing. He took great pride in his work and was honored to have his children work alongside him throughout the years. He would always reminisce on the awesome times he spent working with his boys (and many of their friends) on various jobs. Joe was also a mentor to many in the contracting and landscaping businesses over the years. Many stories have been told to the family over the past several months that show just how impactful dad’s legacy has been.

On January 15, 1983, Joseph married his loving wife, Dawn M. Hyde, in Brownville, New York. Together, they built a beautiful life in Northern New York, raising their family and creating lasting memories. Joe was always a true family man and he wanted nothing but the best for everyone. He worked endless hours, tirelessly, over the years to ensure that his children and grandchildren never went without. Dad was always our biggest fan and supporter. He was a man of unwavering love, strength, and kindness and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him. We are forever grateful to have been blessed to have someone who makes saying goodbye so hard, but we know that this “goodbye” is only temporary and we find some solace in knowing we will join him again one day. We love you so big, daddy!

Beyond his work, Joe enjoyed putting together puzzles with his children and grandchildren, attending car shows, steam locomotives, traveling (especially to Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg), and, most of all, spending time with his family.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 42 years, Dawn; his eight children, Amy J. Gerstenschlager of Philadelphia, NY, Tina M. Gerstenschlager of Watertown, NY, Joseph A. (Nicole) Gerstenschlager of Brownville, NY, Kevin M. (Elissa) Gerstenschlager of Watertown, NY, Katelyn A. Gerstenschlager of Watertown, NY, Thomas J. (Jenna)

Gerstenschlager of Ashburn, VA, Robert J. Gerstenschlager of Glen Park, NY, and Sandra L. Gerstenschlager of Glen Park, NY; his 17 cherished grandchildren; his siblings, Linda Reichert of West Virginia, Brianna Gerstenschlager of Evans Mills, NY, Michael (Susan) Altmire of Alabama, Stephen (Theresia) Selley of Copenhagen, NY, Patricia (Scott) Beattie of Mannsville, NY,  Ann Cousins of Black River, NY, and sister-in-law, Bonnie Gerstenschlager of Brownville, NY; as well as several nieces and nephews.

He is predeceased by his parents; three siblings: David Gerstenschlager, Steven Gerstenschlager, and Carol Lynch; and his granddaughter, Brinley Gerstenschlager.

Calling hours will be held on Thursday April 3rd from 5:00 to 8:00 PM at Hart and Bruce Funeral Home. A funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, April 4th at 11:00 AM at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Church with reception in Dostie Hall at the church following the services and all are welcome to attend. Burial will be held privately for family at North Watertown Cemetery.

Our family wishes to offer up our sincerest appreciation to the staff at Hospice of Jefferson County for the wonderful care and attention they provided to not only dad but our entire family as well. We would also like to thank all of those who have reached out in many different ways and have provided us with some comfort throughout dad’s journey.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Joe’s memory may be made to Hospice of Jefferson County.

Online condolences may be shared at: www.hartandbrucefh.com

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.