Raised in Oceanside, NY, Joe enlisted in the Navy at the age of 17 and fought in both WWII and Korea. Following his military service, Joe enrolled in accounting classes in college and then moved to St. Petersburg in 1959. He owned/operated two bars before beginning his lengthy career with Southland Corporation (7-Eleven) where he retired as District Manager.
During his retirement years, Joe resided at Paradise Island. Over his 29 years there, he was an active member of the Men’s Club and did many things to make the park the special place it is today. Along with other “old timers,” he designed and assisted in building the pavilion by the clubhouse. Joe loved coordinating events, and he enjoyed socializing with neighbors in the park. A life-long sports fan, he coached football in his earlier years, was a first-year season ticket holder for the Tampa Bay Bucs, and shared a love of the Tampa Bay Rays with his wife.
Joe is survived by his wife, Gloria; his children, John, Thomas, Kathleen and Christine; as well as 15 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. Joe was larger than life and will be greatly missed.
Mass will be celebrated at St. Catherine of Sienna Catholic Church on Monday November 22 at 10:00 AM.
Committal prayers will follow at Garden Sanctuary Cemetery.
Arrangements were made under the direction of Garden Sanctuary Funeral Home, 7950 131st Street, Seminole, FL 33776 / 727-391-0121.
