Longtime harness racing industry participant Joseph G. Muscara of Huntingdon Valley, Pa., passed away peacefully at his home on July 16, 2025, after a valiant and dignified fight with cancer. He was 74.

Joe was born in South Philadelphia on Aug. 4, 1950 to the late Joseph V. and Lorraine C. (née Eakin) Muscara. Joe is survived by his beloved wife of over 40 years, Johanna C. (née Pronzato) Muscara, children Gina M. Muscara (Michael Kuhl), Matthew J. Muscara (Cassie), and Joseph D. Muscara (Meghan); and grandchildren Ronan Kuhl, Neve Kuhl, Andrew Muscara, Vada Muscara, and Arlo Muscara. He is survived by three siblings: Cheryl Rondinelli, Robert Muscara, and Mark Muscara. He is predeceased by one sister, Lori Muscara.

Joe excelled at the high jump at Upper Moreland High School, co-captained his college track team, and earned a degree in economics from Ursinus College. He was a proud member of the Beta Sigma Lambda fraternity, and was active in his chapter throughout his life, often attending the annual Poconos trip.

Joe worked for many years alongside his father building homes, developing the Jacksonville Road Industrial Park, and later found immense success in harness racing and horse breeding.

Joe was a man of broad interests. A multi-instrumentalist, he played the piano, guitar, cello, and drums, and dabbled in songwriting in later years. He and his wife enjoyed sailing the Chesapeake Bay out of Rock Hall, Md. Other hobbies included studying history, Russian and Latin languages, flying model airplanes, and woodworking. He also golfed, and was a member of Cedarbrook Country Club for many years and more recently Huntingdon Valley Country Club.

He most enjoyed spending time with his family in Harvey Cedars, Long Beach Island, N.J. Affectionally known as "Pee-Pop", his five grandchildren brought him immense joy in his later years. He was an extraordinarily devoted father and grandfather.

Joe was humble, generous, and loved telling a good story to anyone who would listen. No matter how many times his audience had heard the tale, he made sure to add a few new details each time for entertainment value.

He will be deeply missed.

Relatives and friends are invited to Joe's Life Celebration on Tuesday, July 22, 2025 from 9:30 – 11 a.m. followed by his funeral service at 11 a.m. at the Craft-Givnish Life Celebration Home, 1801 Old York Rd. Abington, PA 19001. Interment will follow at West Laurel Hill Cemetery.

Family services are entrusted to the Craft-Givnish Life Celebration Home, 215-659-2000.

Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Joe Muscara Jr.