Joseph Edward McGonnell Sr, 78, a man whose charisma could light up any room and whose heart was as large as the communities he served, passed away peacefully on December 28, 2025, in Garden City, Idaho.

He was born in 1947, and raised in Williamsport, PA. He attended St. Boniface and St. Mary’s Catholic Schools where he was an altar boy, choir boy and voted Mr. Congeniality in his final year there.

Born with a natural ability to connect with anyone he met, Joe dedicated his life to service and community. He proudly served his country in United States Air Force before beginning a distinguished career with the Topeka Fire Department. He climbed the ranks to Captain, a role where his leadership and charm made him a respected figure among his fellow firefighters and the citizens of Topeka, KS.

Joe was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Darlene (Dolly) Habig, and his son, Joseph Edward McGonnell Jr. of Topeka, KS. His legacy of love and laughter lives on through his daughters, Jennifer A. Luvisi (Ron) of San Antonio, TX, and Nicole M. Porter (Bobby) of Mountain Home, ID, his sisters – Carol A. Hamm (Deni) and Kay McGonnell, both of Williamsport, PA. He was the proud grandfather of nine: Jordan, Shelby, Holiday, Dominic, Zach, Codi, Cody, Austin, Savannah and seven great-grandchildren.

Joe’s remains will rest in the family plot in St. Boniface Cemetery, in Williamsport, which returns him to the place of his birth, and is also the seat of the McGonnell family when they originally emigrated to America.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 AM, on March 14,2026 at St. Boniface Church, 326 Washington Blvd., Williamsport PA 17701.

To share a memory or sign an online register book, please visit http://www.crousefuneralhome.com