Joseph James Napolitano

Portland, Maine-Joseph "Buddy" J. Napolitano passed away peacefully on November 23, 2015 after a courageous battle with kidney disease. He was born August 29, 1930 in Boston, Massachusetts the son of Joseph J. Napolitano and Rita (Carson) Napolitano. After serving his country in the 82nd Airborne during the Korean War he returned to Maine and met the love of his life, his wife of 55 years Mary (Flaherty) Napolitano. Joe retired from Central Maine Power after a 39 year career in the meter department. While at CMP he was recognized for his strength of character, when he was awarded the CMP Presidential award for rescuing a woman from a burning house in Cape Elizabeth. He entered a smoke filled house 3 times before locating and carrying out the woman who resided there. To his humble nature when interviewed about it he just replied " I did what anyone would have done, can I go back to work now". Joe was known as Buddy to his family and longtime friends. It was a nickname he lived up to, as he was always a true friend and always there for you no matter the need. He was a constant worrier about those close to him, and always a gracious host trying to feed anyone who stepped into his house. Joe had a great nature about him and was very easy to like. He was very rarely bothered by anything and was known by his trademark "whatever" when asked his opinion.

Joe enjoyed traveling, being on the water, playing pool and golf. What he loved most was spending time with his family. He especially loved spending time with his grandson Jack. He was extremely proud of all of his 3 children (Patty, Pete and Joe) and his grandson Jack.

Joe was predeceased by his parents, his brother John (Jack) Napolitano, and his son Peter Scott Napolitano. He is survived by his wife of 55 years Mary (Flaherty) Napolitano, Daughter Patricia A Napolitano, Son Joseph J Napolitano Jr, Grandson Jack Napolitano, Brothers Peter (Scotty) Napolitano, Richard (Skippy) Carson, and many nieces and nephews.

The Napolitano Family would like to thank the staff @ both The Barron Center and Southern Maine Dialysis Center for their kindness and care they provide.

Friends and family are invited to attend a time of Visitation on Friday November 27, 2015 from 4:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. at the Jones, Rich & Hutchins Funeral Home 199 Woodford St. Portland, Maine. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday November 28, 2015 at 10:00 A.M. at the St. Peter Roman Catholic Church 72 Federal St. Portland, Maine. Interment will follow at the Calvary Cemetery in South Portland, Maine. On-Line condolences can be given to the family at www.jonesrichandhutchins.com.