Dr. Joseph Hassman

Dr. Joseph M. Hassman, a devoted physician, husband, father, Zeyda, friend, and fisherman passed away peacefully September 1, 2026 at the age of 91.

Born and raised in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, he was educated in his beloved city, attending Central High School, Temple University School of Pharmacy, and the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine.

Known affectionately by all as Doc Joe, he practiced Family Medicine in Berlin NJ for 58 years, beloved by the community and honored by the Mayor of Berlin at his retirement. He was a doctor who was also a trusted friend and confidante. He became involved with medical research early in his career, hoping to be part of advancing medicine and medical ethics. He was known by all for his gentle smile, sincere warmth, fierce dedication and intense love for all who knew him. And for his multitude of stuffed animals on his stethoscope!

Joe grew up on Franklin Street surrounded by grandparents and many aunts, uncles, and cousins within a few block radius. He was a dedicated Boy Scout in Troop #185 that fostered a love for the outdoors, later leading him to sport hunting and fishing, finding peace in nature.

Mentored himself by a neighbor who encouraged him to pursue a career in pharmacy, then by a physician to go back to medical school, he in turn mentored many from encouraging employees to further their education and helping train countless medical and allied health professionals. The door was always open for shadowing and learning, offering guidance and advice. He spent so much time counseling his patients that he later trained in hypnosis and opened a separate practice to further guide patients where traditional medicine fell short.

He entered politics as the “honest doctor” on the ticket, serving Cherry Hill council as Council President and Deputy Mayor focusing on “green acres” and the seniors.

He spent his retirement winters in Delray Beach, Florida enjoying many hours on the tennis courts and swimming pool.

Above all, Joe’s proudest achievement is his family he called the jewels in his crown. He is survived by his loving wife, Lillian (née Davis) Hassman of 70 years; his children, Dr. Howard Hassman (Sara), Dr. Elissa Hassman (Dr. David Waldstein), Dr. David Hassman (Jodi), and Dr. Michael Hassman; his cherished grandchildren, Erica Hassman, Mitchell Hassman, Jared (Madeline) Hassman, Sophia (Sam) Black, Elana Waldstein, Stephanie Waldstein, Corey Hassman, Brooke Hassman, Abby Hassman, Finn Hassman and Mason Hassman; and two great grandchildren Henry Black and Leo Hassman. He is predeceased by his sister Yetta Bergman. His legacy as a compassionate physician, devoted friend and avid fisherman will live on through the many hearts he touched.

Relatives and friends are invited Friday, September 4, 2026 beginning 10:00 am to Platt Memorial Chapels, Inc, 2001 Berlin Road, Cherry Hill, NJ. The family will receive guests from 10:00 am to 11:00 am followed by funeral services beginning promptly at 11:00 am. Interment will follow at Roosevelt Memorial Park in Trevose, PA.

Shiva will be held Friday, September 4th following interment at Elissa and David's home. Visitation will continue on Saturday at David and Jodi's home from 5:30–9:00 p.m. with minyan at 7:30 p.m., and on Sunday, September 6th, visitors are welcome from 4:00–7:00 p.m., with minyan at 6:00 p.m. at Lillian's residence.

Contributions in his memory may be made to:

PCOM Hassman Family Endowed Scholarship
https://philadelphiacollegeofosteopathicme.my.site.com/donate?fund=HASS

Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health
https://www.devereux.org/site/SPageServer/?pagename=donation_checkout_nj

Central High School Donation Fund
https://aachs.app.neoncrm.com/forms/donate

May his memory be a blessing.