Joseph proudly served in the U.S. Coast Guard, having graduated from the Coast Guard Academy, Class of 1962, and retiring at the rank of Captain after 31 years of service. He was an active member of the Colonial Italian American Organization (CIAO), serving as Italian Festival Chairman for the past 10 years. He was also a member of St. Bede Roman Catholic Church.
He is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Elizabeth Finelli; son, Robert Finelli and his wife, Debbie; daughter, Susan Chaney and her husband, Leonard; grandchildren, Joey and Nina Finelli and Atom Chaney; as well as his brothers, Ralph and Jerry Finelli.
Funeral services with full military honors will take place at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.
Memorial contributions may be made in Joseph’s memory to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758517, Topeka, KS 66675. Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.nelsencares.com.
