Joseph Eugene Porrazzo was a gregarious, outgoing man, who allowed nothing to get by him. He was trustworthy and traditional in his approach to his life and in his relationships. He was tough-minded with the kind of “stick to it” attitude that earned the respect of all who knew him. Realistic about life, he was always at the ready, prepared to take on responsibility.
Joseph was born in Springvale, Maine on October 2, 1925. He was raised in Boston, Massachusetts with one sibling, his sister Helen (deceased). Joseph was usually involved in all sorts of activities with his sister, and experienced rivalries typical of a growing family, but they shared many life experiences over the years.
As a young boy, Joseph had a number of interests. Like most children, he enjoyed playing and making up games. He was curious about the world around him and was often eager to explore it. Joseph was an active child who took part in baseball and eventually played second base in minor league baseball for the Boston Red Sox's farm team.
Joseph attended Chelsea High School in Chelsea, Massachusetts. He quit high school after 10th grade and then entered the Navy, but eventually earned his GED after WWII.
On October 1, 1944 Joseph exchanged wedding vows with his wife, Marguerite.
Joseph is a good father to his children and he did his best to fulfill their needs. Joseph was blessed with four children, two daughters, Marilyn and Cheryl and two sons, Joseph and James. Another blessing for Joseph was the gift of 12 grandchildren, David, Wayne, Tim, Steve, Bobby, Tony, Stephanie, Jennifer, Joanne, Laura, Erin, and Joseph III and 17 great-grandchildren: Jayme, Austin, Freya, Porter, Tyler, Siri, Conner, Sofia, Justin, Torsten, Cedella, Curtis, Bradie, Alex, Ryan, Taryn, and Karlyn.
Joseph enjoyed what he did for a living. Showing a strong work ethic, Joseph worked diligently and succeed in his career. His primary occupation was as an Aerospace Production Manager. He was employed for 30 years in Garrett Air Research. Joseph was a team player, doing what was necessary in order to get the job done.
Joseph was a Navy Veteran. He was a Gunners Mate on Merchant Marine Tankers in the Atlantic and Pacific, and saw action during WWII. Through his hard work, he achieved the rank of Gunners Mate 2nd Class. His fellow soldiers viewed him as a brother in arms and knew that he was as much a part of their family as their loved ones back home.
Joseph enjoyed his leisure time by taking part in various hobbies. His favorite pursuits were wood working and vacations to Las Vegas, Nevada. He was content to enjoy his favorite pastimes alone but was also willing to share his interests with others.
Joseph also found pleasure in sports. In high school, Joseph played baseball. As an adult his sports included bowling, baseball, and softball. Joseph was also an adamant sports fan and enjoyed following his favorite events whenever he had the chance to do so. Tops on his list were football, basketball (Boston Celtics), and baseball (Boston Red Sox).
Joseph enjoyed traveling with his wife, Marguerite, and time away on vacations. Their favorite vacations were always those to Las Vegas, Nevada.
Joseph was a lover of animals and cherished his pets. One of his favorites was Gus, a Black Lab dog. They were best friends for 10 years.
When Joseph’s retirement arrived in 1987, he was well prepared. His new life involved relocating to Las Vegas, Nevada. In retirement, he found new pleasure in playing the poker slots and watching old black and white movies. During retirement he made friends wherever he would go- at the market, the bank, and the casino. He would talk and joke with anyone who would take time to listen.
Joseph passed away on July 19, 2010 at Las Vegas, Nevada. Joseph survived Prostate Cancer, corroded arteries surgery, and died from a fall, hitting his head causing a stroke and brain damage. He is survived by his children: Cheryl Robinson, Joseph E. Porrazzo Jr. and James W. Porrazzo, 12 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. Services were held at Palm Mortuary, Eastern Chapel in Las Vegas, Nevada. Joseph was laid to rest in Palm Valley View Cemetery in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Simply stated, Joseph was a good and kind father and grandfather, an individual who will for all time be remembered by his family and friends as being a caring and giving person, someone who was a vital part of their lives. Joseph leaves behind him a legacy of life-long friendships and many cherished memories. Everyone whose life he touched will always remember Joseph Eugene Porrazzo.
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