Joseph Sakraida, age 68, of Newark, DE passed away on March 29, 2023, after a battle with colon cancer. He was at peace in his beloved home, surrounded by family.

Born in Pittsburgh, PA, he was the son of the late Marge (Novak) and Kenneth Sakraida. He received his bachelor's degree from the University of Scranton and master's degree from Arizona State University. He was a lieutenant in the United States Navy, with 4 years of active duty service and several years in the reserves. He went on to work in the financial planning sector, which his family affectionately refers to as "Phase 1" of his career.

He then made a late-in-life pivot to becoming a top wine seller at Total Wine ("Phase 2".) A no-nonsense person by nature, Joe loved a good deep dive into the details, and his stint as a wine enthusiast tapped into his appreciation for craftsmanship. The family joked that he could sell the more expensive wines to anyone because he spoke earnestly and without fluff.

When he wasn't spending time with his family, his loyal dog Madison, or his hiking and wine friends, Joe loved to be in nature. The solitude and simplicity of nature resonated with Joe more than anything else in life. He was happiest doing yard work at The Chateau (his nickname for their forest-heavy home in Delaware), planning road trips, and breathing in the fresh air.

He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Sheila (Riley) Sakraida; his three daughters and their partners, Ariella and Andy Saucier, Lindsay Sakraida and Tom Hoban, and Jennifer and Jon Remsa; his four grandchildren, Morgan Saucier, Gwendolyn Saucier, Gavin Remsa, and Wynne Remsa; and his siblings, Kathy Sakraida, Mike Sakraida, and Vince Sakraida.

A Celebration of Life will be held for the family. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that people make a donation to the National Parks Foundation, to honor Joe's love for the country's great parks.