JO and JOSEPH
SMERDEL
Congratulations to Joseph and Jo (Eloise) Smerdel who celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary earlier this summer. Joe and Jo, as they are affectionately known to family and friends, met at a school dance and were married five years later on June 13, 1964, at Sacred Heart Parish in Shadyside. Joe is a graduate of the school of business at the University of Miami where he played guard and defensive tackle for the legendary Hurricanes. Jo graduated from Carlow College in Oakland and earned her master's degree in education from the University of Pittsburgh.
They have resided in beautiful Murrysville since moving from Point Breeze in 2000. Near lifelong Pittsburghers, they have built a prosperous life and wouldn't consider raising their family anywhere but here. Joe spent most of their married life as a member of the Boilermakers Union 154 where he retired in 2000. Jo taught high school biology at Joe's alma mater, the prestigious Central Catholic High School. She also spent time in the City and suburban schools before ending her career in the Woodland Hills School District. In addition to teaching at WHHS, she was named Science Department Chairperson and ultimately the Science Gifted Coordinator, all while teaching anatomy and physiology classes at CCAC Boyce before dimming her microscope for the last time in June of 2006. For the couple who sacrificed it all for their kids, they are finally enjoying the brilliance of Europe and plan to return next year.
They are the proud parents of three children: Kristine Louise (Yanalitis), Paul Joseph and Joi Catherine (Brook). They are also consummate grandparents to 4 grandchildren who are the joy of their lives! Any time not spent globe- trotting or antiquing will surely find them with Tristian, Rachael Kate, Hayden or Channing.
Their special day was celebrated with a family gathering on the very shore where they spent their honeymoon, Ocean City, N.J. Congratulations Mom & Dad! Thank you both for teaching us how to play and live life to the fullest, as well as showing us how to love, give, and have it all. We love you!! Happy 50th Anniversary!