Josephine Zdilla
Jan. 21, 1940 – Aug. 7, 2023
Josephine Marie Taravella Zdilla, 83, of Apache Junction, Ariz., passed away on Aug. 7, 2023, in Chandler, Ariz. Josi, daughter of the late Salvatore Taravella and Frances DiPiazza Taravella, was born Jan. 21, 1940, with her twin sister, Joanne, in Monessen. A graduate of Monessen High School, Class of 1957, she worked in retail and as a paramedic for CAS and Tri-Community Ambulance. After moving to Arizona, she worked as an office manager in the security and automotive industries. Josi loved to crochet, read, play cards and dote on her grandkids. Her unwavering love and strength will forever be a part of our lives. Josi is survived by her beloved husband of 53 years, John “Yi” Zdilla of Apache Junction, Ariz.; her children, Vicki (Takashi) Hobbs and Jason (Angie) Zdilla of Chandler, Ariz.; grandchildren, Brittany Halinka, Ashley Halinka (Bryn) Lignoski and Nathan (Chantalle) Zdilla; brothers, Frank (Norma) Taravella and Joseph Taravella; and sister, Joanne Cathers; along with many nieces and nephews. Josi was preceded in death by her infant son, Stephen Wozniak; her parents; brother, Anthony Tarvavella; sister, Maria Blatnik; brothers-in-law, Thomas Blatnik and David Cathers; and sister-in-law, Karen Taravella. No services are planned. In a last act of generosity, she donated her body to science so others may learn.
