Dr. Allen Joseph Ersek

Beloved Husband, Father, Grandfather, Educator, and Lifelong Philly Sports Fan Dr. Allen Joseph Ersek, known for his quick wit, unwavering kindness, and deep devotion to family and community, passed away peacefully on January 20, 2025, at the age of 92. Joe was born in Eddystone, PA, to Hungarian immigrants John and Elizabeth Ersek. He was one of nine siblings who kept their parents on their toes. From a young age, he understood the value of hard work. Not surprisingly he was voted Most Dependable at Eddystone High School where he also played on the varsity basketball team with a shot that he loved to show off to anyone willing to humor him- especially his grandchildren. After high school, he made his way up from selling cigarettes to dockworkers to earning his undergraduate degree in Education from West Chester University and later obtaining his master’s and doctorate degrees from Temple University. Dr. Ersek began his career as a sixth-grade teacher at Amosland Elementary School before serving in the U.S. Army from 1956 to 1958. In 1966, Joe became the beloved principal of Edgewood Elementary School, where he spent 25 years. Known as a gentle giant and the most patient man around, Dr. Ersek brought his infectious humor, kind approach, and unwavering belief in his students and teachers, leaving a lasting legacy in the community. He was truly adored by his students and teachers. While at Amosland, he met the love of his life, Nancy, a fellow teacher. They married and spent 62 wonderful years together, raising their three children in Ridley Township before moving to Willow Valley, Lancaster, in 2009. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Dr. Ersek was the steady rock of his family. Joe was not only devoted to Nancy and his kids, but there was also rarely a favor asked of Joe from anyone that he could resist. He just had a way of never letting anyone down. He was an unashamed pushover for his grandchildren, always ready with a sneaky treat, a crisp ten-dollar bill, or a well-timed joke to make them laugh. A true extrovert, Joe loved everyday banter with his friends, family and everyone he met throughout the day. Always a jokester, Joe loved making people laugh. He enjoyed golfing with his brothers, planning family travel on a budget and spending time with his grandkids and friends, including dinner and card groups with his Ridley School District friends that lasted more than 30 years. Joe never missed an Eagles game. He remained a true Philly fan—always hopeful and loyal, despite the typical Philly skepticism. There is no doubt he was orchestrating the Superbowl win from above. Dr. Ersek leaves behind a family and community who adored him, and a world that was brighter because he was in it. Though his mischievous grin will be missed, his spirit will live on in every joke told, every act of kindness, and every cheer for a Philly team. Joe Is survived by his three children and their families: Laurie Jackman and her husband Todd of King of Prussia, PA, along with their children Dean (25) and Lily (18); Cindi Frame and her husband David of Mill Valley, CA, and their children Andrew (24), Kylie (22), and Carson (19); and Joe Ersek and his wife Rachel of Bethesda, MD, with their children Ben (18), Grace (16), and Evie (16). He is also survived by his siblings, Ron Ersek and Ruthie Manapat. A Celebration of Dr. Ersek’s life will be held on March 15, 2025, from 12-3 at The Inn at Swarthmore, 10 S Chester Road, Swarthmore, PA 19081. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor his memory by sharing a joke, cheering a little louder for Philly sports, and, just once, letting your grandkids get away with something—because that’s what he would have done.