Joe Angel Pizzini

Born on January 4, 1930, to Archie G. and Guadalupe Casares Pizzini. Joe was raised by Margarita Casares Pizzini and knew her as his mother. Joe lived a life defined by service, integrity, and devotion to both his family and his country.

During the Korean War, Joe served with the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve’s 14th Infantry Battalion, where he was called to active duty. As a forward observer and wireman, he attained the rank of sergeant and fought bravely in pivotal campaigns, including the capture of Seoul and the grueling Battle of Chosin Reservoir. For his courage and dedication, he was awarded the Korean Presidential Unit Citation, the Korean Service Medal with one silver star, and the U.S. Navy Commendation Medal with Combat “V” for Valor. His guiding motto, “Always be faithful in all that you do,” remained with him throughout his life.

Following his honorable discharge from the Marines, Joe continued his service to the nation in the U.S. Air Force, where he served in Vietnam as a chief weather Observer. He retired in 1976 from the Air Force; he then went to work for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. As a meteorological technician with the National Weather Service, he forecasted weather until he retired in 1992. In both his military and civilian career, he earned respect for his thorough, disciplined, and professional approach.

Joe’s life was not defined by service alone. He was a devoted husband, father, and stepfather whose warmth and wisdom enriched the lives of those around him. He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Elizabeth Ann Pizzini; his wife Alice’s son, Matthew Shreve; and his brothers Roland Cazarares Pizzini, Archie Pizzini Jr., and Simon Mooney Pizzini Sr.

He is survived by his loving wife, Alice; his brother Gilbert Pizzini; his sons David Lee Pizzini and Joe Allen Pizzini; Alice’s children Josh and wife Lucerito Shreve, Douglas and wife Elizabeth Shreve; as well as 9 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren, extended family, and countless friends.

Joe’s memory will be cherished by his family, fellow veterans, and colleagues who knew him as a man of honor, resilience, and quiet strength. The House in the Woods organization captured his spirit best when they wrote that he will be remembered “in the stillness of the woods, in the whisper of the wind, and watching over us from above.”

His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the example he set — a true testament to a life faithfully lived.