Joseph J. Garpstas, 84, of Crisfield and formerly of Glen Burnie, died Thursday, August 28, 2014 at Coastal Hospice at the Lake in Salisbury.

Born in Baltimore on April 9, 1930, he was the son of the late Joseph C. and Margaret Bathgate Garpstas. He had been making his home in Crisfield for the past 27 years.

He was a retired Baltimore City Police Officer working from 1951 until 1977. He was one of the original K-9 officers and later was an instructor.

Mr. Garpstas was a member of the former Crisfield Kiwanis Club and spearheaded the Christmas toy drive for many years. He was also a member of the US Coast Guard Auxiliary Crisfield, Knights of Columbus, and the USMC Reserves.

He is survived by his wife, Alfreda Lehmann Garpstas of Crisfield; two daughters, Susan Hose and Brenda Garpstas, both of Crisfield; a sister, Dorothy Braitwaite and husband Don of Deal Island; a grandson, Brian Garpstas and wife Kelly of Crisfield; three great grandchildren, Ashley, Amber and Emily Garpstas, all of Crisfield; and a great-great-granddaughter, Anabelle Garpstas of Crisfield.

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Dougie Garpstas.

Private memorial services will be held at a later date at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are requested to be sent to Toys For Tots, c/o Ed Hearthway, 9945 Sharptown Road, Mardela Springs, MD 21837; or Lower Somerset County Ambulance and Rescue Squad, LSCARS, P.O. Box 406, Crisfield, MD 21817.

To send condolences to the family, please visit www.bradshawandsonsfuneralhome.com