Joseph Benjamin Shank, age 69, formerly of Holtwood, passed away on Feb. 8, 2024.
Born in Lancaster, he was the son of the late E. Benjamin and E. Arlene Hess Shank. He graduated from Penn Manor High School in 1972. He was the father of Colby Benjamin Shank, husband of Cindy Francis Shank, of Manor Township; and Chelsea Peifer, wife of Lance Peifer, of Manheim. He was also the proud grandfather of Lana and Toby Shank and Dax and Lucy Peifer.
Earlier in his life, Joseph worked at Nauman Construction, TriCraft Builders and Lefever Builders. With a penchant for neatness and perfection, he was an excellent carpenter. His proudest build was his parents' house, but his magnum opus (in his daughter's eyes) was the custom playhouse he built for his children. He was a hobby farmer and loved to reminisce about working on his parents' farm, quick to tell anyone that you don't know hard work until you cut tobacco.
Joseph attended River Corner Mennonite Church in his youth and other churches later in life. He loved God and his family with his whole heart. He enjoyed trips to the beach but ultimately thought Lancaster County, particularly Holtwood, was the greatest place on earth. He loved hiking and being outside in nature and passed that love on to his family. Driving around in his pickup truck, visiting people, riding bike, hunting and fishing, going out to eat, and listening to country music were among his other favorite activities.
Surviving in addition to his children and grandchildren are his siblings: Deborah (Richard) Buckwalter, Flo (Eldon) Lehman, Jeanette (Larry) Yoder, and John (Debra) Shank.

A memorial service is planned for 10am on Saturday, Feb. 17, at River Corner Mennonite Church, 524 River Corner Road, Conestoga. A viewing will take place prior to the service beginning at 9am.
Joseph's children would like to thank everyone who cared for him throughout his lifetime, from mental health and medical professionals to police officers, restaurant and convenience store employees, neighbors, friends, and strangers. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Water Street Mission or Lancaster Conservancy.