Joseph T. "Bomber" Derzak, 84, of Coaldale, died Wednesday, Jan. 19, in the St. Luke's Miners Memorial Hospital, Coaldale. He was the husband of the late Catherine "Bay" (Davis) Derzak.

He worked for the Lehigh Coal & Navigation Company at the former No. 14 Colliery, Coaldale.

Born in Coaldale, he was a son of the late John and Helen (Surdak) Derzak.

He was a member of the former SS. Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church, Coaldale.

Derzak was an Army veteran of World War II.

He was a life member of the West Ward Rod & Gun Club, Coaldale, and a member of the Coaldale American Legion Post.

Surviving is a sister, Helen Horoschak of Coaldale.

He was also preceded in death by a sister, Theresa Pushcarovich.

Service: Private funeral arrangements are being handled by the E. Franklin Griffiths Funeral Home, 655 E. Broad St., Tamaqua. Interment, Sky-View Memorial Park, Hometown. Online registry and condolences may be signed at