Joseph W. Janssen, Jr., 85, of Greenville, Delaware, died on December 15, 2025, surrounded by family.
Born in Havertown, Pennsylvania, Joe was raised in a family with a long tradition in food retail, starting in upscale butcher shops, where he learned the importance of hard work, integrity, and personal responsibility. He graduated from Archmere Academy, attended Villanova University and served in the U.S. Army Reserves before joining his father, Joseph W. Janssen, founder of Janssen’s Market.
Over decades of leadership, Joe guided the business through significant changes and upgrades in the grocery industry while preserving its independent character and high standards. Under his stewardship, Janssen’s Market became a trusted neighborhood institution known for quality, personal service, and long-standing relationships with customers, employees, and suppliers. Joe believed a local market should be more than a place of commerce—it should strengthen the community it serves. Joe’s steady leadership and fairness earned the respect and loyalty of those who worked with him. Today, the family tradition continues under the leadership of Joe’s daughter, Paula Janssen, as Janssen’s Market marks its 73rd year.
Beyond the family business, Joe was a founding Director of Christiana Bank and Trust, serving from 1992 to 2008. He loved to be on the ocean, whether life guarding, fishing or just relaxing on his son’s boat. His family remembers the love and care that he took in watering every plant and flower on his beloved Olde Farm.
Joe is remembered for his integrity, faith, and commitment to community stewardship. Joe was preceded in death by his parents Joseph W. Janssen and wife Paula and his sister Polly Fulton. He is survived by his wife, Eileen Franz Janssen; his son, Joseph Janssen III (Christy); daughter Paula Janssen; grandchildren Joseph Janssen IV and Brady Janssen. He also is remembered by his extended family and many colleagues and friends.
The family is very grateful for the loving care of the healthcare staff at Country House, especially Joe’s angels at Wesley Way.
A Visitation will be held from 9:30 to 11:00 am on Friday, January 9, 2025 at St. Joseph on The Brandywine Catholic Church, 10 Old Church Road, Wilmington, DE 19807. A Funeral Mass will follow beginning at 11:00 am. Interment will be private in the church cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Waggies by Maggie & Friends, a nonprofit organization whose mission is employing individuals with intellectual disabilities to make natural dog treats. Donations may be made online at www.waggies.org or by mail to Waggies by Maggie, P.O. Box 7933, Wilmington, DE 19803.
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