Joseph Joel Urena-Martinez

Joseph Joel Urena-Martinez, 40, of Mechanicsburg, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, June 4, 2024. He was the son of Jose Urena and Maria Martinez, born on December 21, 1983, in Bronx, NY.

Joe and his family would move from New York to Central PA when he was in middle school, graduating from Harrisburg High School - John Harris Campus (Class of 2001) and then going on to earn a bachelor's degree from Williamson College of the Trades. He spent his entire working career as a technician with Johnson Controls, where he was assigned to Milton S. Hershey Medical Center as an overseer of their HVAC and other infrastructure systems. He had been with the company for over 18 years at the time of his passing.

Outside of work, Joe was a minimalist who valued the time he was able to spend with family. He was humble and giving, and he was fantastic in the kitchen. Reading and gaming were two hobbies that occupied any downtime he found. He was a lover of animals, enjoyed a good game of scrabble, and would relax to the sounds of classical music or light jazz.

Joe was the cornerstone of his family, stepping up to support them whenever possible. He would play any role necessary to help his brother, sister or mother when life's challenges presented themselves. He didn't have a bad bone in his body, and without being asked, Joe always did what was needed. No matter what obstacles he faced on a personal level, he made a habit of putting others first, living to help those around him. He was outgoing and loving, constantly showing friends and family what it meant to be selfless. His beautiful soul will carry on in the lives of his family.

Surviving Joe are his parents, Maria Martinez of Mechanicsburg, and Jose Urena of Upstate NY; three brothers, Gilber J. Reynoso of Thurmont, MD, Bryant Urena, and Jonathan Urena; two sisters, Stacey Rodriguez of Carlisle and Jasmine Urena; his grandmother, Carmen Martinez of Mechanicsburg; and a large extended family who loved him so very much.

A public viewing will be held from 2-4PM on Saturday, June 8, 2024 at Parthemore Funeral Home & Cremation Services, New Cumberland. Friends and family are welcome.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a contribution in Joe's name to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, PO Box 1999, Memphis, TN 38101.