Josef J. Riedlbauer

Josef J. Riedlbauer, a man whose zest for life and love of adventure permeated every action, peacefully passed away on April 3, 2024, in Baltimore, Maryland, at the age of 83. Born on April 16, 1940, in Austria, Josef's journey brought him not only to a new country but also to countless skies, mountains, and seas that he explored with unbridled joy.

Josef was the dear son of the late Anton and Rosa Riedlbauer, and throughout his life, he embodied the warmth and resilience that he inherited from his parents. A devoted husband, Josef met his beloved Sheri J. Riedlbauer in the skies, sharing a passion for flying that resulted in a loving marriage that lasted 48 years. As a cherished father, he passed on his adventurous spirit and boundless affection to his children Josef Shane Riedlbauer and his wife Tricia, Heidi Riedlbauer-Johnston and her husband Jim, and Karin Appel and her husband Bill.

He delighted in his role as a caring grandfather to Josef Ryan Riedlbauer and Alayna Massey, and as a beloved great-grandfather to Josef Ryder Riedlbauer. Josef also held a special place in his heart for his loving brother, Anton Riedlbauer and his wife Rita.

A keen pilot, Josef  "Helicopter Joe" is remembered for his Pitts plane, painted in striking red, white, and blue, through which he showcased his love for flight and freedom. His passion for Formula One racing was equal only to his mirthful times spent hunting and fishing at his cherished log cabin in Haneyville, PA, where he was celebrated for his homemade deer jerky and moments of joy hand-feeding the bears with his grandchildren.

Exotic hunting in Africa was another facet of Josef's adventurous life, where he proudly navigated the wild and returned with tales of leopards, zebras, kudus, and more. Family trips in their RV to Ocean City and snowmobiling excursions in PA are treasured memories that paint the picture of a man deeply loving and eternally adventurous.

Josef J. Riedlbauer will be profoundly missed by his family, friends, and all who were touched by his generous spirit and vibrant presence. His legacy of love and adventure continues to soar in the hearts of those he leaves behind.

Family and friends will honor and celebrate Josef's at the family owned Evans Life Celebration Home - 8800 Harford Road, Parkville MD 21234, for a Receiving of Friends, on Saturday April 13th 2024, from 11-1PM. A prayer service will be held following the Receiving of Friends, at 1PM. 

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