Joseph James Battista

Joseph “Buddy” Battista, 84, of Garner, NC and formerly of North Branford & Mystic Passed away on December 11, 2012. Born to the late Catherine and Joseph Battista in New Haven, CT and resided in North Branford for most of his life.

He is predeceased by his wife of 46 years, Patricia Peterson Battista.

Buddy was a man of many talents. He retired from St. Johnsbury Trucking after a long career. He was well respected and loved by everyone that had the chance to meet him.

Surviving are his loving sons and daughters, Deborah & Scott Hallier, Kathryn & John Rosenkrantz, Beth & John Gura; by his loving grandchildren, Nicholas & Nicole Morrone, Joe, Jeff & Johnny Rosenkrantz, Michael, Melissa & Stephanie Gura, Matt, Mike & Bambi Battista; by his loving great grandchildren, Christian, Alana, Joey & Sofia whom he truly adored; by his sisters, Dolly Voos & Marie (Tony) Ponzillo and many nieces and nephews.

He is predeceased by his brothers, Almond “Curly” Provenzano, Arthur & James Battista.

Buddy is also survived by his wife Rita Niver & his son Gary (Despina) Battista.

A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, December 22, 2012 at 5:00 pm at the North Branford Congregational Church 1680 Foxon Rd, North Branford, CT.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Cosgrove Animal Shelter, Brandford, CT 06402 or CT Hospice, Double Beach Rd, Brandford, CT.

Arrangements by Apex Funeral Home, Apex, NC. Online condolences may be directed to www.apexfuneral.net.