Joseph Anthony Lovullo

May 12, 1930 – October 7, 2026

Joseph Anthony Lovullo, affectionately known as Joe, lived a life defined by service, determination, and devotion to his family and community.

Joe was born on May 12, 1930, in Buffalo, New York, to Anthony and Louise Lovullo, who immigrated from Palermo, Italy, through Ellis Island in the 1920s. The middle of three brothers, Joe was eight when his family moved to Lynwood, California. A standout high school track and field athlete, he could run a mile in under five minutes. His love of running stayed with him beyond high school, and he went on to compete in races and marathons.

At 18, Joe enlisted in the United States Marine Corps as a private, beginning a distinguished 24-year military career that included service in the Korean and Vietnam Wars. He earned a commission and rose to the rank of lieutenant colonel, retiring as a “Mustang,” the Marine Corps term for an officer who began his career in the enlisted ranks.

In 1972, with four children at home, Joe retired from the Marine Corps and returned to school, earning a bachelor’s degree in real estate and appraisal. He founded Anchorage Investments, which later became Lantern Bay Realty after he was awarded the contract to sell the Lantern Bay development overlooking Dana Point Harbor.

In his second career, Joe became known to many as “Mr. Dana Point.” He also taught real estate at Saddleback College for many years, sharing his knowledge and experience with generations of students.

Joe left his mark on Dana Point through the buildings he developed. In 1975, he built a building on Pacific Coast Highway. Ten years later, he built Dana Point’s first three-story building at 34080 Golden Lantern. Both projects remained sources of pride for him.

Joe was a Marine, a real estate professional, a teacher, an investment counselor, a mentor, and a friend. To his family, he was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and uncle. Those who knew him also remember his knack for picking horses at the races, his resourcefulness as “Mr. Fix-It,” and the joy he took in singing and playing the ukulele.

Joe is survived by his wife of 66 years, Diane, and their four children, Janene, Joe, Mike, and Jodi, along with their spouses. He also leaves behind seven grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, eight nieces, and two nephews.

Joe will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his family, friends, former students, colleagues, and the many others whose lives he touched.