Joseph M. Fontaine, 40 of Gettysburg passed away on October 28, 2024.

He is survived by his father, Paul W. Fontaine and wife Kay, and by his mother, Patricia Noel and husband, Larry. Also surviving are four siblings: Zachary Fontaine, Anna Johnson, Sarah Weaver and Emma Noel, as well as four nieces, six nephews and many loving family members and friends.

Joseph was preceded in death by his brother, Benjamin Fontaine; his maternal grandparents, William and Helen Dennerlein, his paternal grandparents, Pierre and Inez Fontaine, his uncle William Dennerlein, and two cousins.

Joe was born in Gettysburg in 1984, the fourth of six children. He was a cute and loveable little boy who had many innocent yet interesting expressions, such as after being told by his mother that he was born in Gettysburg Hospital he asked, "How do you know?" Or when realizing that all of his sisters were born in the month of October he asked his mother if she planned it that way. There are many memories of what we call "Joeyisms". He loved the beach and during many summers spent a few weeks with his maternal grandparents in Lewes, DE. fishing, going to the arcade, and enjoying the summer. While growing up he spent a lot of time with his paternal grandparents, eating ice cream and cookies.

There is no reason to hide the fact that Joe became addicted to drugs and alcohol. That was part of who he was. He struggled for many years but the disease was too big for him. Yet, as for all people with addiction problems, there remained a pure heart and soul beneath the struggle, if only we looked deep enough. He loved his family, including his two young sons who were adopted at birth by another family. He was always concerned about the well-being of his family, frequently asking his mother if she was going to her Al-Anon meetings and if they were helping.

There were often times when Joe didn't have a place to rest his head, but he always knew where his heart rested. Over the years his "Joeyisms" continued, telling others to "have an attitude of gratitude" and to take life "one day at a time".

He left this world with only six small possessions, but with a lot of love.

A celebration of Joseph's life will be held at a later date in private by his family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to LifePath Christian Ministries; 367 W, Market St.; York, PA 17401 or online by visiting www.lifepathyork.org . Donations may also be made to Broad Street Love; 315S. Broad St.; Philadelphia, PA 19107 or online by visiting www.broadstreetlove.org

Arrangements are under the care of Peters Funeral Home, Inc. in Gettysburg.

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