Joseph Chirico

Joseph “Joe” Chirico passed away peacefully at Fr. Hudson Center for Hope in Elizabeth on Saturday, September 13th. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 57 years Carmela (Ianniello) Chirico. Joe was born in Elizabeth, and lived on Centre Street for most of his life until he retired to Toms River. He was active in the Peterstown Community, St. Anthony Church, and was an usher at St. Joseph’s Church in Toms River. Joe was an Army Veteran of the Korean War where he honorably delivered medical care in the field to wounded soldiers. Joe was a graduate of Fairleigh Dickinson University, and worked for Singer’s in Elizabeth for 20 years as a mechanical engineer. During that time he obtained his Master’s Degree in Business Administration.

Joe was an avid golfer, bowler, softball, tennis and bocce player. He coached Little League at St. Anthony’s and could be found playing and coaching pick-up games in the schoolyard.

Joe left behind three children Mark, Lisa (Nascondiglio), and David, and was lovingly called “Gramps” by his eight grandchildren. His brother Dominick and a total of six nieces and nephews also survive him.

Joe’s motto was to “keep moving”, as evident in his daily walks, and his handyman status among his wife and children. He had the ability to start a conversation with anybody, and subsequently call him or her his “friend”. Joe maintained a positive attitude even while battling health issues later in life, and never complained, always putting the well-being of his family first.

Visitation will take place on Tuesday, September 16th from 2-4 & 7-9 PM at McCracken Funeral Home, 1500 Morris Ave., Union. A funeral mass will be offered on Wednesday, September 17th at 10:30 AM at St. Anthony's Church, Elizabeth, with interment to follow at St. Gertrude Cemetery, Colonia.