Joseph Lawrence Rola

It is with a heavy heart that I share the passing of my beloved husband, Joseph Rola, who left this world on Monday, August 10, 2026. Joe was born in 1943 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to Joseph and Gloria Rola.

Joe was a man of deep faith, a devoted Catholic who lived his values quietly and consistently. He was a graduate of Villanova University, where he began a career as an electrical engineer that would take him through RCA, Raytheon, and Northrop Grumman. He brought that same precision and dedication to everything he touched — his work, his community, and above all, his family.

Joe served his community as a Marco Island City Councilman for four years, and for 26 years he and I called Marco Island home. He loved the water more than almost anything — there was nowhere he'd rather be than on his boat, the Awashonks, out on the open water with the wind in the sails.

But more than anything, Joe loved having me by his side. He was loyal, intense, and utterly dedicated — to his work, to his causes, and most of all to us. He wanted me with him always, and I was honored to be there for every mile of it.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Gloria Rola, and his brother, Ron. He is survived by me, his wife Barbara; his daughter Christine; his stepdaughter Victoria; his stepson Darren; his sister-in-law Sybil; and all who were lucky enough to know him.

He will be deeply missed, and forever loved.

A Visitation will be held at Hodges-Josberger Funeral Home on Friday, August 21, 2026, from 12:00 to 1:00 pm. A Funeral Service will follow at 1:00 pm. Burial will take place at Marco Island Cemetery.