Joseph Michael Larkin

Joseph “Joe” Michael Larkin, PhD, of Jenkintown, PA, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family, after a long and valiant battle with cardiac and kidney failure at age 68.

Joe was a family man, married for 43 years to his BFF Ann Crossin Larkin. Joe and Ann met 50 years ago as freshmen at Saint Joseph’s University in 1974 and so, are considered “Hawk Mates.” Joe was extraordinarily devoted, dependable and down-to-earth. His family was his world — his three daughters, Meghan Theresa Kelleher (Joe), Johanna Marie Howles (Brian), and Katherine “Kate” Ann Bruso (Connor). Life gifted Joe with three precious grandchildren, James “Jamie” Oliver (7), Claire Larkin (5), and Oliver Michael (17 months) Howles. He cherished all the happy memories and adventures with them.

Joe was born in Philadelphia, PA on November 9, 1956 and grew up in Southampton, PA. He was the beloved son of the late Joseph and Alfreda (Smith) Larkin.

Joe’s life was dedicated to learning, teaching, refereeing, and mentoring others. He was a graduate of Archbishop Wood High School, class of 1974, and continued his studies at Saint Joseph’s University where he earned a dual bachelor’s degree in Accounting and Food Marketing. He earned a master’s degree in Business Administration from Penn State University followed by his PhD from Temple University.

Joe was Professor Larkin, CPA, to many students in his 39-year career as an accounting professor at Saint Joseph’s University. During his tenure, Dr. Larkin served as department chairman and served on several boards, including as an advisor to the accounting society, SJU athletic board, among others. Most satisfying to Joe of all these many roles was advising and teaching St. Joseph’s students. He even shared his beloved Sheltie dog, Sadie, with his students during exam time.

Joe also refereed soccer matches for over 42 years with players ranging from preschool to professional. He was a certified intercollegiate, high school and club soccer official and member of the PIAA and served as a longtime officer and treasurer of the Eastern PA District Intercollegiate Soccer Official’s Association.

As an avid South Jersey fan, people watching, sunsets and golden happy hours in Cape May and Stone Harbor were some of his true happy places. Joe also loved nothing more than showing his love through food – by making his famous pork roll, egg and cheese sandwiches, a big pot of meatballs, or baked ziti. He was quirky, quick-witted, goofy and delivered honesty accompanied with humor. Joe loved cheering on the SJU Hawks, as a season ticket holder for many years, the Philly sports teams, PSU football, and any and all soccer matches.

Relatives and friends are invited to his viewing Saturday, January 25th from 9:00 AM to 10:45 AM followed by his funeral mass at 11:00 AM both at Immaculate Conception BVM Church, 604 West Ave. in Jenkintown, PA.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations made in the memory of Joe Larkin to Saint Joseph’s University towards a scholarship for students in the Accounting program. Gifts can be made via the following link: giving.sju.edu/larkinmemory or sent to St. Joseph’s University, 5600 City Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19131.

Services entrusted to the Joseph J. McGoldrick Funeral Home, Jenkintown, PA and condolences may be made at www.McGoldrickFH.com