Joseph Gans Flatau, Jr., 59 of Elkton, MD, died suddenly Saturday, November 7, 2015 in his home. Born in Philadelphia, PA, on May 11, 1956, he was the son of the late Joseph Gans Flatau, Sr. and the late Helen E. Flatau (née Freitick). Joe attended Upper Darby High School, where he met his future wife and the love of his life, Joyce Hurley. He then attended the University of Miami, where he became a fervent ‘Canes fan, and Widener University, earning a B.S. in electrical engineering in 1979. Known for his work ethic and tenacity, Joe had a successful career in industrial fiber optics, founding Harbenaux, Inc., and earning a patent for his invention xJuMPER. Joe will be remembered for his kindness and generosity, his enthusiasm and cheerfulness, and his devout Catholic faith. Above all, he will be remembered for his love of his family and friends. Joe had an eclectic set of interests and curiosities that, like everything else in his life, he approached with passion and enthusiasm. His hobbies included music of all kinds, boating, tinkering in the garage, radio controlled vehicles, science facts, and science fiction. If you mentioned an interest or problem to Joe, the next time you saw him, he would be an expert and anxious to share with you what he had learned. He was never happier than when he could find a new way to surprise someone with a special, personalized present or gesture. In short, Joe spent a life devoted to his family and to enriching the lives of those around him.

Joe is survived by his devoted wife: Joyce A. Flatau (née Hurley); two sons: Harrison Joseph Flatau, and Benjamin Joseph Flatau and his wife, Johanna Nevitt; sister: Helen; many nieces and nephews; and his favorite tug-of-war opponent, Ali the golden retriever.

A Mass of Christian Burial, conducted by Father Joseph Piekarski will be held Friday, November 13, 2015.  Visitation begins at 10:00 am prior to 11:00 am service at St. Jude Mission Church, 928 Turkey Point Road, North East, MD.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations to help the disabled sent to Elwyn Institute in honor of Joyce’s brother, Patrick Hurley, 111 Elwyn Rd, Media, PA 19063. 

For more information, please visit www.joeflatau.com.

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