Joe was a loving husband to wife Margaret for 62 years; a father to Kathleen (husband Charlie, dec.), Martin (wife Erin), and Suzanne (husband Matthew); a doting grandfather of nine; and great-grandfather of four. Born to John and Helen in Youngstown, Ohio, Joe had two brothers: twin brother Jack, dec. (wife Joanne, dec.) and younger brother Tom (wife Michelle, dec.).
After graduating from Youngstown (State) University with a degree in mechanical engineering, Joe began his career as an engineer for Goodyear Aerospace implementing Nike Zeus missile systems worldwide. In 1963, he was recruited by the NASA space program where he worked on various missions, including the Viking mission to Mars, until retirement in 1995. His notable achievements included earning an MBA (1984), leading a team at Lewis (now Glenn) Research Center to win the prestigious Collier Trophy in Aeronautics (1987), and receiving the rank of Meritorious Executive from President Reagan (1988). Throughout his career and in retirement, Joe and Margie enjoyed traveling—visiting 38 countries, 6 continents, and 46 states. Joe was passionate about golf, his Cleveland Browns, Cleveland Indians, woodworking, painting landscapes, and most of all his family. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Wounded Warrior Project or St. Judes Hospital. Funeral services will be held at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Castle Rock, CO February 16 at 11 a.m.
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