Entered into heaven after a short-term illness. Devoted father of Joseph “Joey” Michael Szafranski Jr.. Beloved son of Joseph E. and Susan (nee Kibler) Szafranski. Brother of Megan (Paul) Gillikin. Also survived by a supportive family including aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. Born and raised in Buffalo, NY, Joseph attended Amherst High School and Canisius College. He graduated with a Master’s Degree in Health Sciences. He was employed by CBP as an Entry Specialist. Joseph loved the Bills, Sabres and Yankees. He enjoyed music of all kinds and loved to cook. He had the ability to see beauty in the simple things in life. Joseph had a generous heart and a kind spirit. His smile lit up a room. He had an amazing group of friends he considered brothers but the light of his life was his son, Joey. Joey made his dad so proud through his scholastic success and athletic achievements. The memories they made are eternal. Joseph would be happy if everyone was always kind to each other and remembered it is a wonderful world. All are invited to celebrate the life of Joseph Michael Szafranski at a Mass of Christian burial on Saturday, March 28, 2026 at 9:30 a.m. at Christ the King Church, 30 Lamarck Dr. (at Main St.) Amherst, N.Y. 14226. Online condolences may be shared at www.TheDietrichFuneralHome.com.