Joan M. Gritzen

Joan Marie (Ostrowski) Gritzen, 73, of Wyoming passed away on Saturday, July 25, 2026 in Birchwood Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center, Nanticoke, PA.

She was born June 13, 1953 in Pittston, daughter of the late Cas and Marion (Loyd) Ostrowski.

Joan grew up in West Wyoming and graduated high school in Stanford, CT in 1972, from Mother of God Academy.

She returned to Pennsylvania in 1973, to her roots, only to find Ben D. Gritzen, the love of her life. They got engaged in December of 73, and married in 79. Joan worked numerous jobs including, Dunkin Donuts and a dress warehouse in Kingston for a short time. She also worked as a dietary aide in Wesley Village for 22 years and because of her love of children, worked at several daycare centers for a few years. Her last job before retirement was at K-Mart of Pittston as a register operator. Joan was a member of the Christian Mother's Society at St. Joseph's -St Monicas Church, a CCD instructor at St. Joseph's, and also a member of both the West Wyoming and the Wyoming Hose Co. No. 1.

In addition to her parents, Joan was predeceased by her brother, Martin Ostrowski in 1995, and sister Patricia Ostrowski DiVasto.

Joan is survived by her beloved husband, Ben Gritzen, brother, Michael Ostrowski (Mindy) of Cape Cod, MA; sister, Rose McKenzie of New Haven, CT, nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, in-laws and friends.

A Blessing Service will be held on Friday, July 31 at St. Monicas Church, 363 W. 8th St., Wyoming, at 10 AM.

Relatives and friends are invited to call from 9 AM until the time of the service at St. Monicas on Friday, July 31, 2026.

Arrangements are entrusted to Metcalfe Shaver Kopcza Funeral Home, Inc., 504 Wyoming Ave., Wyoming.