Joseph Jerome Cronin

Joseph Jerome Cronin, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 88. Born on December 5, 1936, in Sutton, Nebraska, to Lawrence “Chas” Cronin and Geraldine “Jerry” (Walter) Cronin, Joe’s life was marked by his deep love for family, faith, and community.

Joe grew up proudly Irish and Nebraskan, spending his childhood on his grandfather’s farms in Nebraska, where he cherished helping on the farm and making lifelong friends in small-town life. A devoted fan of the Nebraska Cornhuskers, Joe’s pride in his roots remained steadfast throughout his life. He attended St. Cecilia’s Catholic School in Hastings, NE, where he was an altar boy and a football and baseball player. Family was at the center of his world, and he loved driving his wife and daughters through the towns of Nebraska to visit relatives, sharing stories of his childhood.

Joe met the love of his life, Carmela “Carm” Costa, while working at United Airlines—he was a ticket agent, and she was a flight attendant. Their romance blossomed during visits to New York City, highlighted by a memorable horse-drawn carriage ride through Central Park and a performance by Ella Fitzgerald at Basin Street East. They married on November 11, 1961, at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church and shared 63 beautiful years together, filled with love, shared interests, and faith. Their honeymoon plans to Las Vegas were briefly interrupted by a snowstorm in Colorado Springs, a story they cherished as part of their journey together.

A proud U.S. Marine, Joe served during the Korean War, achieving the rank of Private First Class. After his military service, he graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Colorado and dedicated his career to the federal government, working for the Forest Service, the Bureau of Land Management, and the Bureau of Reclamation in Lakewood, CO. Known for his leadership, empathy, and mentorship, Joe received numerous awards for his contributions to his career and community.

Joe and Carm raised three daughters, Kelly Sengenberger (Doug), Michaela “Micky” Masciarelli (Jim), and Tara Cronin, instilling in them the values of faith, service, and love. Joe was a devoted father who shared his humor, intelligence, and passion for sports, coaching, and life’s lessons.

His grandchildren, Margaret “Maggie” Masciarelli, Julia Masciarelli, and James Masciarelli, held a special place in his heart. He was their biggest fan, cheering them on in all their endeavors.

Joe’s Catholic faith guided his life. He was a devoted member of the Knights of Columbus, served as an usher, and participated in various church committees. His commitment to helping others extended beyond his family. For almost 30 years he coached both boys’ and girls’ teams including coaching football, baseball, softball, basketball and track teams. He was a mentor and teacher and helped the youth with sports as well as teaching them life lessons. Many lives were enriched by his mentorship and dedication.

An avid reader, trivia enthusiast, and sports fan, Joe could recall stats and stories with ease, earning him the nickname “The Answer Man.” He loved the Denver Broncos, Rockies, and Nuggets, but his true allegiance lay with the Nebraska Cornhuskers. Summers were spent in the mountains of Estes Park, where he enjoyed hiking, and horseback riding, often channeling his inner John Wayne. Joe’s love for music, from cowboy songs to Christmas carols, filled his home with joy.

Joe’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to family, faith, and community. He leaves behind cherished memories of his smile, playful sense of humor, and the deep pride he took in his family. As he would say, “Happy trails… until we meet again.”

A celebration of Joe’s life will be held at Christ on the Mountain Catholic Church, Lakewood Colorado, January 10, 2025. Rosary at 10:00 am, service and reception to follow. Joe will be interned at Ft. Logan at 1:30 pm. Should you wish, donations may be made to a charity of your choice in his name.