Joel Herman Weiss
March 24, 1953 - July 11, 2026
Visitation Information
July 14 2026 - 12:00 pm
Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc., 5509 Centre Avenue, Shadyside
Funeral Information
July 14 2026 - 1:00 pm
Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc., 5509 Centre Avenue, Shadyside
Joel Herman Weiss, 73, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on July 11, 2026.
Born on March 24, 1953, Joel was a proud lifelong Pittsburgher whose life was defined by his unwavering devotion to his family, his dedication to his work, and the enduring friendships he built throughout his life. He was a devoted father, a proud grandfather, a loving brother, and a loyal friend whose quiet strength, generosity, and steadfast character left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. He took immense pride in the lives his children built, and nothing brought him greater happiness than spending time with his grandchildren.
Joel is survived by his loving children, Lauren Weiss Winston, Aaron Weiss, and Stevey Weiss and her husband, Jason Rothfeld; his cherished grandchildren, Sarey, Benji, Joey, Chloe, and Remy; and his loving sister, Shelly.
Joel devoted almost his entire professional career to Equiparts, where he served as President and helped transform the family business into one of the most respected companies in the industry. Through his vision, integrity, and relentless work ethic, he built far more than a successful business. He built a community. Joel believed that the people who worked alongside him were not simply employees. They were family. That belief was reflected in every aspect of his leadership and ultimately in his decision to transition the company to employee ownership, ensuring that the people who helped build Equiparts would share in his future. For Joel, Equiparts was never just a career. It was a lifelong passion that gave him purpose, fulfillment, and countless lifelong friendships.
A proud Pittsburgher through and through, Joel never lost his love for his hometown or its teams. He was a devoted supporter of the Steelers, Pirates, and Penguins and remained an enthusiastic fan through every season. Sports were more than entertainment for him. They were a source of tradition, connection, and countless memories shared with family, friends, and coworkers. His love of competition also extended into his own life. In his younger years, Joel embraced an active lifestyle and completed numerous marathons, demonstrating the determination and perseverance that became hallmarks of both his personal and professional life.
Above all else, Joel's greatest source of pride was his family. He celebrated the accomplishments of his children as though they were his own and found immeasurable joy in watching his grandchildren grow. His love was steady, his loyalty unwavering, and his presence a constant source of strength for those closest to him.
The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the many caregivers whose compassion, kindness, and dedication brought comfort to Joel throughout his journey. Your care meant more than words can express, and your support will always be remembered with deep gratitude.
Joel's legacy lives on in the family he loved, the friendships he treasured, the company that became his life's work, and the countless people whose lives he touched. He will be remembered for his integrity, humility, quiet determination, and unwavering loyalty. He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
Services at Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc., 5509 Centre Avenue, Shadyside, on Tuesday, July 14, 2026 at 1 PM. Visitation one hour prior to services (12 noon - 1 PM). Interment Agudath Achim Cemetery in Forest Hills.
Contributions may be made to the American Heart Association (https://www.heart.org/donate). www.schugar.com
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Saddened to hear of Joel's passing. My sympathies to his family. I had always enjoyed seeing him, even though I hadn't in a while. We were cousins and had a special bond when we were kids.
By Ronna Lieberman - July 17, 2026
I could always count on Joel to make be laugh during elementary school. I see his same smile in the picture with his employees. I send my condolences to all who loved him.
By Jeffrey Pitler - July 17, 2026
I was very sad to hear of Joel’s passing. I hadn’t seen him in many decades. . But I have very very fond memories of him from typing class where we were seated next to one another. He always cracked me up. He and Lenny Mankin would make up jingles about the teacher and the 3 of us would chant them before she walked into the room. To this day, I remember a few and can hear Joel’s young laugh and see his image at 16. May his memory be a blessing.
By Ilene Cohen Leefer - July 13, 2026
My son, Michael Brown, would talk about the owner. He liked when he would come to work and walk around and talked to the employees. He hasn’t seen him for awhile and missed him. You have our deepest sympathy at this time of sadness. God bless you all.❤️🙏🏻
By Bobbie Wassberg - July 12, 2026
So sorry to learn of Joel's passing. We were best friends as we grew up together on Oglethorpe. In Stanton Heights. In fact we were so close that he initially lived across the street from me, then he moved next door. Today I am flooded with great memories of our fun times together. My condolences to all of Joel's family and close friends. I am sorry I will not be able to visit with you on Tuesday as I am out of town. May his name always be a blessed memory.
Milo Averbach
By Milo Averbach - July 12, 2026