

Beloved husband of 55 years to Kathleen, Joseph was a devoted and loving father to David (Nicole), Suzanne, and Kenneth (Gina), and a proud grandfather to Nicholas, Isabella, Ryan, and Michael. He was also a cherished uncle to Maria (D’Introno) Gele. His deep love for family was evident in every part of his life.
Born in Long Island City, Joseph graduated from John Jay High School before attending Drake Business School, where he studied drafting. He served in the U.S. Army as a cook at Fort Dix, and later began a long and respected career with the New York City Department of Transportation. He worked in the Streetlighting division and rose through the ranks to become Director of Streetlighting — a role in which he took great pride.
After moving to Flushing, he met Kathleen Pilkington, who lived just two blocks away. They married in 1970 and settled in Hicksville in 1973, building a warm and welcoming home where they raised their family.
Joseph was a lifelong baseball fan. His favorite team was the Yankees, but he also liked the Mets — and he loved attending games with his family. In his younger years, he enjoyed deer hunting, and in retirement, trips to Atlantic City became a favorite pastime. But more than anything, Joseph loved being surrounded by family. He never missed a moment — from ballgames to recitals, award ceremonies to graduations — always cheering on his children and grandchildren with pride and joy.
A visitation will be held on Friday, October 10, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Vernon C. Wagner Funeral Home in Hicksville, NY. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at 10:00 AM at St. Paul the Apostle Roman Catholic Church in Brookville, NY, with burial to follow at Queen of Peace Cemetery in Old Westbury, NY.
May Joseph’s memory live on through the love he shared, the lessons he taught, and the joy he brought to all who knew him.
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