Joseph M. LoPresti

Joseph “Joe” M. LoPresti of Brandon, FL passed on June 30, 2022, at the age of 97. He is preceded in death by his wife of 61 years, Dee. He is survived by five children Deb (Steve) Hall, Christine LoPresti, Joan (Larry) Ludwig, Joseph W. (Laura) LoPresti, and Mary Beth (Rick) Yamnitz; grandchildren Cheryl Kaymore, Leslie Cathey, Bonnie Hall, Michelle (Josh) Fuller, Jason Yamnitz, Grant and Blake LoPresti; great-grandchildren Cierra Kaymore, Steven (Jenessa) Cathey, Lindsey (Morris) Featherstone, Aubrey and Hailey Fuller; and great-great-granddaughters Morriah and MaLeah Featherstone. Joe was born on February 22,1925, in Pittsburgh, PA to Cora and Anthony LoPresti. He was the oldest brother to the late Frank, Al, and Gene LoPresti. A U.S. Navy veteran, Joe enlisted after an early high school graduation and served for five years, four of which were in the South Pacific theatre during WWII. After his return to civilian life he earned a Bachelor’s Degree from Duquesne University. He began working toward a Master’s Degree, but his growing family led him to follow a more direct, practical path toward business management and later business ownership. Among Joe’s achievements was recognition as a national sales manager, and he was honored as an exceptional mentor. He remained passionate about learning and education throughout his life and loved to read and discuss history, geography, and topical issues. Joe’s gregarious nature and natural leadership were expressed through life-long community service in organizations including Parent-Teacher Associations when his children where young, the Kiwanis Club, and the Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE) where he received several awards for his contributions. He was also active in Freemasonry, the Scottish Rite, and Egypt Shrine. Joe was a devoted participant at Nativity Catholic Church in Brandon, FL. He served as a Eucharistic Minister and for many years could be found daily in the front pew for early morning Mass. Over the past decade Joe was proud of his ability to live independently. He demonstrated grace in aging with an inner strength and adaptability that were admirable. Many marveled at his good health, mobility, youthful appearance, and ever-present positive attitude. Dunkin Donuts was a favorite haunt for coffee and talk with conservative buddies, and across settings he sought out opportunities for friendly conversation. Joe’s priority was his family, and he loved gatherings, celebrations, and updates about everyone’s activities. He inspires us, and we will miss him dearly. The family will receive friends at Stowers Funeral Home, 401 W. Brandon Blvd, Brandon, FL 33511 on Friday, July 8, 2022, from 10-11:30 a.m. (Business Casual) with interment to follow at Florida National Cemetery, 6502 SW 102 2nd Ave, Bushnell, FL 33513. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, www.svdp.org