The western Washington sports community is mourning the loss of a former University of Washington Husky, Joe Jarzynka. On March 5, authorities found 45-year-old Joe Jarzynka dead on the river bank of the Sol Duc River on the Olympic Peninsula. Someone reported to the sheriff’s office that they had seen a man who was “obviously deceased” on the river bank, prompting the dispatch of a swift water rescue team to the area. An autopsy for Joe Jarzynka remains pending.
Joe Jarzynka was a former football player for the University of Washington Huskies, where he won the hearts of his teammates and fans from 1996 to 1999. His skills as a kickoff and punt returner, along with his gradual role as a receiver, made him an important part of the team. Although Joe Jarzynka’s football career ended years ago, he left a lasting impact on the sports community that remains unforgettable.
The Investigation into Joe Jarzynka’s death

The circumstances surrounding Jarzynka’s death are still unclear. An examination of Joe Jarzynka’s body has been scheduled but has not yet been completed. The western Washington sports community mourns the loss of a beloved former Husky and sends their deepest condolences to Jarzynka’s family and friends during this difficult time.
- According to Jarzynka’s family, he was on a fishing trip, and deputies later discovered a single-person pontoon boat stuck in a log jam about a mile from where they found his body.
- As of this writing, the cause of his death is still unknown, and details about the pending results of an autopsy are yet to be heard. Stay tuned for updates as we continue to follow this developing story. We hope we can know more about the tragic death of Joe Jarzynka.
Remembering Joe Jarzynka’s life and career
Joseph Jarzynka was born and raised in Michigan before his family moved to Gig Harbor in 1990. Many people widely recognized Jarzynka for his refusal to call a fair catch and his long, flowing locks of hair.
- Joe Jarzynka’s wife, Jen, and his two children, Madelin and Fisher, are the ones who survive the former football player. His family currently faces a challenging time, and a verified GoFundMe campaign has been set up to help support them.

- According to the GoFundMe page, Jarzynka was a beloved husband and father, and a loyal friend to many. The football player Joe Jarzynka earned a reputation for his infectious smile, positive attitude, and big heart. His family and friends remember him as a kind and generous person who always put others first.
- The news of Jarzynka’s passing has left the western Washington sports community in shock and disbelief. He was a beloved figure in the Husky Nation, and his untimely death has left many feeling heartbroken.
Husky Nation, today we lost a legend @joey_jay21 Joe Jarzynka… RIP #21,
No Fair Catching brother
😢💛💜— Cam Cleeland (@CamCleeland) March 6, 2023
- Fans, former teammates, and coaches have been overwhelming in their outpouring of support and condolences. A testament to the impact that Jarzynka had on the lives of those around him.
The Spiel Times team sends the deepest condolences and prayers to the family and friends of Joe Jarzynka.
If you have other questions about Joe Jarzynka’s pending autopsy, let us know in the comments below. Until then, stay with us here at Spiel Times for more content.