Joseph Anthony Shaver, WARMland’s little Joey Shaver, entered the gates of heaven to the tune of “Here Comes Joey” Saturday, Nov. 5, 2022.
For 81 years, he lived his life to the fullest from the time he graduated from Kingston High School in 1959. He served his country with pride in the U.S. Navy, and when he left the service he started his long career in radio broadcasting and sales followed by television.
From station WBAX to WARM The Mighty 590, he loved the business! At WARM his 7 p.m. to midnight show was very popular with the teens. He later went into sales at the station and was the number one salesman for years. After his sales success at WARM, he became the sales manager for Magic 93.
Just prior to retirement, he became involved with WVIA Public Broadcasting in sales and on the air. The Polka show was very popular at the time. Dancing was one of his true joys! Joey and his wife, Judi, took ballroom dance lessons for a few years, so Joey suggested to management a Ballroom One Dance Program. It turned out to be a great idea and it aired for ten years never missing a beat! He also enjoyed emceeing Joe Nardone’s Summer Dances and the Doo Wop shows at the Kirby Center.
During his adult life, Joey always had a Corvette. He loved airplanes so he bought one and became a pilot. He and Judi would fly to Atlantic City, walk the Boardwalk and fly home all in the same day! He enjoyed hunting and fishing in Harveys Lake where he resided for 31 years. Cruising on the lake, he had a classy speed boat and a waverunner. He collected records, hats and guitars. While at his vacation home in Florida this past winter, his latest achievement was becoming a licensed amateur radio operator.
Community involvement was also important to him. He was past-president of an organization for Children with Learning Disabilities, past-president of the Wilkes-Barre Kiwanis Club and past-president of the Harveys Lake Protective Association. He was a member of George M. Dallas Masonic Lodge #531 F&AM and Irem Shrine Legion of Honor.
Joey was a member of Our Lady of Victory Church and faithfully attended the Saturday services and assisted as a collection usher.
He was the only son of the late Joseph J. and May Flower Shaver of Kingston.
Joey leaves behind his wife, dance partner and caregiver, Judi Blasé Shaver; his sons, Joseph W. and Brian C. (LeeAnn); his loyal companion dog, Lilly; brothers-in-law, Dr. Robert Blasé (Mary); Dr. John Scott Blasé (Jane); numerous nieces and nephews; cousins and many many great friends! He lived a wonderful life!
Donations, if desired, may be made to Blue Chip Animal Refuge, c/o 974 Lockville Road, Dallas, PA 18612.